Senator Win Gatchalian said the enactment of a proposed measure institutionalizing the government’s ban on all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) would help ensure the removal of POGO remnants and also guarantee that the prohibition extends beyond the current administration.
Gatchalian made the statement as the Senate approved on third and final reading Senate Bill 2868, or the Anti-POGO Act of 2025. If enacted into law, the measure would repeal Republic Act 11590, which legitimized offshore gaming in the country.
“The measure not only bans offshore gaming operations but also builds safeguards for our people.”
“The measure not only bans offshore gaming operations but also builds safeguards for our people,” the veteran legislator said.
“Hindi dapat kinokompromiso ang kapakanan ng taumbayan para sa kita na galing sa ilegal at maruming negosyo.”
“Hindi dapat kinokompromiso ang kapakanan ng taumbayan para sa kita na galing sa ilegal at maruming negosyo,” added the Senate Committee on Ways and Means chairperson and author of the bill.
The measure mandates the forfeiture of all POGO-related properties and equipment to prevent their reuse in illegal operations.
It is one of the priority bills the government hopes will hurdle Congress’ approval before it adjourns this June.
“This isn’t just a law — it’s the people’s demand to end the POGO menace,” the veteran legislator concluded.
