Efforts to Strengthen Local Safety and Clean the Market
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has approved a PHP 50 million (approx. $888,000) grant to support the deportation of foreign workers involved in illegal offshore gaming operations. This initiative follows the government’s continued crackdown on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) that persist in the black market despite regulatory bans.
Funding to Support Deportation of Detained Foreign Workers
The grant will be distributed to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) in two equal installments of PHP 25 million. The first tranche was released during a ceremonial signing on June 30 at PAGCOR’s executive office in Pasay City. The funds will cover deportation expenses for POGO workers currently detained at the BI Warden Facility and Protection Unit.
PAGCOR emphasized that all deportations will adhere to international legal standards and humanitarian guidelines. This move is part of a broader commitment by PAGCOR to maintain a regulated, responsible, and lawful gaming industry in the Philippines.
Commitment to Public Interest and National Security
PAGCOR chairman Alejandro Tengco stressed that the deportations are not only about enforcing the ban but also about protecting the integrity of the country’s gaming sector. He highlighted the importance of collaboration with government agencies, particularly the Bureau of Immigration, to safeguard Filipino communities from illegal gaming activities.
“Since I assumed the leadership of PAGCOR, I have always been open to help and collaborate with our partner agencies. We look forward to deepening this collaboration with the BI to help create a safe and progressive place for all Filipinos.”
— Alejandro Tengco, PAGCOR Chair
Tengco also expressed gratitude to BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado and reaffirmed PAGCOR’s intent to prioritize the interests of Filipino citizens in every policy decision.
Initiatives to Promote Responsible Gambling
In parallel with enforcement actions, PAGCOR has launched the PAGCOR Guarantee website, offering transparency around legally licensed online gambling platforms in the Philippines. The new site helps users verify which operators are officially sanctioned.
Additionally, legislative proposals are being considered to restrict e-wallet deposit use for gambling, with the goal of curbing excessive player spending and promoting responsible gambling behavior among local users.
