Comprehensive ban on all POGO-related entities

The new executive order applies broadly, covering all forms of offshore gaming operators, including those licensed by PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation), POGO gaming agents, and associated service providers such as business process outsourcing (BPO) companies. This encompasses entities offering technical support, live studio streaming, IT, and gaming software services.

Under this order, all unlicensed POGO and IGL (Internet Gaming Licensee) activities are now classified as illegal gambling, and the issuance or renewal of licences has ceased. By year-end, all licensed entities must completely wind up operations, dismantling associated business components and auxiliary services.

Support and transition measures 

Acknowledging the economic impact on the thousands of Filipino workers employed in the POGO sector, the government has established Technical Working Groups (TWGs) to aid in employment recovery and worker reintegration. The TWG on Employment Recovery and Reintegration aims to provide upskilling and reskilling programmes to help displaced workers transition to new roles, thus minimising the socioeconomic fallout from the industry’s closure.