Philippines Enacts Total Ban on POGOs Under New Law

In a decisive move, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act 12312, the "Anti-POGO Act of 2025," marking a definitive end to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in the country.

Key Legislative Changes

The new law repeals Republic Act No. 11590, which previously imposed taxes on offshore gaming licensees and their service providers. This represents a fundamental policy shift from regulation and taxation to complete prohibition.

Legislative Timeline

• July 22, 2024: President Marcos announced the POGO ban during the State of the Nation Address, citing serious criminal activities including human trafficking and torture associated with POGO operations.
• November 2024: Executive Order No. 74 imposed an immediate ban on offshore and internet gaming operations.
• June 2025: The Senate passed Senate Bill No. 2868 on June 9, followed by House of Representatives adoption on June 11.
• October 23, 2025: The bill was signed into law.

Rationale Behind the Ban

The government identified POGOs as significant threats to national security and public welfare. According to President Marcos, eliminating these operations addresses numerous challenges related to organized crime and human rights violations within the country.

Legal Penalties and Enforcement

The Act establishes stringent penalties for violations:

• First Offense: 6-8 years imprisonment plus fines ranging from ₱300,000 to ₱15 million
• Second Offense: 8-10 years imprisonment plus fines ranging from ₱15 million to ₱30 million
• Third Offense: 10-12 years imprisonment plus fines ranging from ₱30 million to ₱50 million

Public officials or employees face maximum penalties within their applicable category. Foreign nationals convicted under this law will be deported immediately upon completion of their sentence and permanently barred from re-entering the Philippines.

Implications for Foreign Investment

Foreign businesses currently operating in or providing services to the offshore gaming sector must cease operations immediately to avoid severe legal consequences, including imprisonment, substantial fines, and permanent deportation.

This legislation demonstrates the government's commitment to ethical business practices and should not be interpreted as a general restriction on foreign investment.

The Philippines continues to welcome foreign investment across legitimate sectors that contribute positively to economic development while adhering to national interests and human rights standards.