Ten months after the fact, Philippines officially enacts law banning POGOs
Summary
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr has signed Republic Act (RA) 12312, formally banning offshore gaming operations known as POGOs. The new law repeals RA 11590 (which had legalised POGOs) and makes the establishment, operation or facilitation of offshore gaming unlawful.
The Act orders the permanent cancellation of all previously issued POGO licences, revokes visas and work permits for foreign POGO workers and provides for their deportation. Outstanding taxes and fees remain payable, with the Bureau of Internal Revenue instructed to conduct relevant audits.
RA 12312 creates an Administrative Oversight Committee, chaired by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, to oversee implementation. Penalties are severe: first offences carry up to eight years’ imprisonment and fines up to Php15 million; repeat offences attract higher jail terms and fines (up to 12 years and Php50 million for a third offence). The maximum penalty applies if a public official is involved.
The law formalises an Executive Order issued by President Marcos in November 2024 that had already halted new licences and required existing POGOs to cease operations by 31 December 2024, effectively cementing the ban that has been in force since 1 January 2025.
Key Points
- RA 12312 officially bans offshore gaming operations (POGOs) and repeals RA 11590.
- All POGO licences are permanently cancelled; establishment, operation or facilitation of POGOs is unlawful.
- Visas and work permits for foreign POGO workers are revoked and deportation is mandated.
- Outstanding taxes and fees remain payable; the Bureau of Internal Revenue will conduct audits.
- An Administrative Oversight Committee, chaired by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, will oversee enforcement.
- Penalties include hefty fines (up to Php50 million) and prison terms (up to 12 years) for repeat offenders; public officials face maximum penalties.
- The Act codifies the earlier Executive Order that ceased POGO activity from 1 January 2025.
Why should I read this?
Short version: this changes the playing field for anyone involved in Asian online gaming or licensing. If you work in gaming, payments, compliance or regional investment, this law affects licences, staff, tax liabilities and enforcement risk — and it isn’t a temporary tweak. Read it so you’re not caught off guard.
