Senate Bill 2868 receives final approval amid national push to end POGO operations
The Philippine Senate has officially passed the Anti-POGO Act of 2025 (Senate Bill 2868) on its third and final reading, effectively clearing the legislative path to permanently ban Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). This move marks a decisive shift in the country’s stance on offshore gaming, once seen as a lucrative revenue stream but increasingly associated with crime, corruption, and public safety concerns.
A Legislative Landmark for Public Welfare
Senator Win Gatchalian, Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means and the principal author of the bill, described its passage as more than a legal milestone—it’s a public mandate.
“The measure not only bans offshore gaming operations but also builds safeguards for our people,” he said. “The welfare of the people should never be compromised for the sake of profits from illegal businesses. This isn’t just a law—it’s the people’s demand to end the POGO menace.”
Once enacted, the legislation will repeal Republic Act 11590, the law that had previously provided a regulatory framework for POGOs. The new measure ensures comprehensive asset forfeiture, preventing former operators from repurposing their infrastructure for future illegal activity.
Asset Forfeiture and Enforcement Provisions
The Anti-POGO Act mandates the confiscation of all assets and equipment used in POGO operations, a move designed to close loopholes and halt any attempts to re-establish operations under different guises.
This level of legislative clarity and enforcement is aimed at dismantling the economic and logistical base of offshore gambling networks, which have come under intense scrutiny for alleged links to money laundering, human trafficking, and cybercrime.
Gaming Sector Grows Despite Offshore Pullback
Interestingly, the bill’s progress comes even as the domestic gaming industry in the Philippines shows robust growth without POGOs. According to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) increased by 25% year-on-year in 2024, driven largely by E-Games and E-Bingo.
This rise supports claims by anti-POGO advocates that the local industry can thrive without relying on risky offshore gaming models, especially when prioritising regulated and socially responsible gambling channels.
Final Steps and Broader Implications
The bill is part of the priority legislation agenda for the current congressional session, and is expected to move swiftly toward ratification and implementation. Once signed into law, the Philippines will become one of the few Asian jurisdictions to enact a total and enforceable ban on offshore gaming operations.
With this legislation, the Senate sends a strong message: economic development must not come at the expense of public safety, national reputation, or social order.
