Crackdown Begins After POGO Ban Takes Effect

Published on 2 January 2025

Following the nationwide ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) on January 1, authorities have initiated comprehensive efforts to address the aftermath. State lawyers are tasked with reviewing the inventory of assets from shuttered POGO operations. This includes canceling fraudulently acquired birth certificates used by foreign nationals and seizing illegally obtained real estate and other assets.

The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) noted that while the total value of these assets remains unclear, their priority is to take possession and establish control over them.

Congressional probes revealed that some Chinese nationals used fake birth certificates to gain Filipino citizenship, enabling them to open businesses and acquire properties unlawfully.

However, the process of confiscating these assets has been sluggish. Both the Senate and the House of Representatives are working on legislation to expedite the forfeiture of POGO-related assets in favor of the government. This would include properties, equipment, and proceeds from illegal operations.

The complete shutdown of POGO operations across the country was mandated by the President through an Executive Order, which took effect on January 1, 2025.