POGO or Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator was formally banned in the Philippines after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act No. 12312 on October 25, 2025. It prohibits the operation, provision of services, and acceptance of bets on any online games or sporting events operated in the country.
The ban also includes the establishment of POGO hubs, the use of equipment or paraphernalia for POGO, and assisting anyone involved in illegal operations. The provision or use of fake documents and the leasing of houses, vehicles, or establishments for POGO are also prohibited.
Employees and foreigners involved in POGOs can be deported and lose their visas or work permits. POGO operators are also required to pay taxes and regulations until the last day of operation. There is a penalty ranging from ₱300,000 to ₱50 million and imprisonment from 6 to 12 years depending on the number of violations.
Senators and congressmen, including Risa Hontiveros and Sherwin Gatchalian, praised the law, saying it will help the welfare of the people and prevent the social ills brought about by POGOs. According to them, human dignity is more important than profits from illegal gambling.
