Marcos Bans New POGOs, Orders Phase-Out

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Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has delivered a significant blow to the online gaming industry by announcing a complete ban on the establishment of new Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), also known as Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs). The decision, effective immediately, follows growing concerns over illegal activities linked to POGOs. It was undertook some measures in the beginning of the year making the start of the regulation year crazy for the country. 

The announcement, made during the State of the Nation Address, comes after a series of raids on POGO-related compounds linked to human trafficking and scams. The move aligns with the stance of multiple senators and support from the Department of Finance (DOF) and the National Economic and Development Authority.

Existing POGO operators will have until the end of the year to cease operations. This decision marks a significant shift in the Philippines' stance on online gaming and is expected to have far-reaching implications for the industry.