Screengrab from RTVM

In a powerful and unexpected declaration during his third State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced, "Effective today, all POGOs are banned." This decisive statement marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to dealing with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

Marcos didn’t mince words as he laid out the reasons behind this bold move. He slammed POGOs for engaging in a litany of illicit activities. "Disguising as legitimate entities, their operations have ventured into areas farthest from gaming such as financial scamming, money laundering, prostitution, human trafficking, kidnapping, brutal torture, even murder," he said.

"The grave abuse and disrespect to our system of laws must stop. Kailangan na itigil ang panggulo nito sa ating lipunan at paglalapastangan ating bansa."

To ensure a smooth transition, Marcos directed the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to wind down and cease POGO operations by the end of the year. Recognizing the impact this ban will have on employment, he also tasked the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to work closely with the country’s economic managers to find new jobs for those who will be displaced.