After 15 months since the president declared the total ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) during his July 2024 State of the Nation Address, the Anti-POGO Act of 2025, institutionalizing the nationwide prohibition of offshore gaming operations and related activities, is now a law.
President Marcos signed Republic Act No. 12312, officially banning all forms of POGO operations in the Philippines and repealing Republic Act No. 11590, which had previously imposed taxes on offshore gaming licensees and their service providers.
The Anti-POGO Act prohibits any person or entity from conducting, offering, or participating in offshore gaming operations, including the creation or operation of POGO hubs, the use of POGO gaming equipment, and the registration of companies intended to conceal such activities.
The law further revokes all licenses previously issued by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), special economic zone authorities, the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, and other government agencies, directing all existing operators to wind down operations immediately upon the law’s effectivity.
In addition, work permits and visas issued to individuals employed by POGOs and related service providers are automatically canceled. Those involved in illegal operations remain liable for all taxes, duties, and fees due to the government up to the last day of their operation.
Any act or combination of violations of the law will now constitute an “unlawful activity” under the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2001 (Republic Act No. 9160).
The law also prohibits the recruitment, hiring, or employment of both Filipino and foreign nationals for offshore gaming operations.
To oversee enforcement, the measure establishes an Administrative Oversight Committee (AOC) which is tasked to ensure real-time information sharing, coordinated investigation, and prosecution of offenders.
The AOC is chaired by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), with the Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) as members.
Meanwhile, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has been directed to develop transition programs for Filipino workers affected by the ban.
Under RA 12312, violators face imprisonment of six to twelve years and fines ranging from ₱300,000 to ₱50 million, depending on the gravity and frequency of the offense.
Furthermore, public officials found guilty will face the maximum penalty, while foreign offenders will be deported and permanently banned from re-entering the Philippines.
President Marcos first announced the total ban on POGOs during his 2024 State of the Nation Address, citing crimes such as human trafficking, torture, financial scamming, and money laundering associated with the industry.
He later issued Executive Order No. 74 in November 2024, enforcing an immediate prohibition of offshore gaming operations.
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