Philippines gaming regulator PAGCOR has again resisted calls to shut down the country’s POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators) industry, revealing instead that it is looking for a new third-party auditor to ensure licensed operators are paying their fees and taxes.
The agency issued a statement on Thursday in response to comments made by Senate Ways and Means Committee Chairman and renowned POGO opponent Sherwin Gatchalian, who last week called for all online gaming operators to be shut within three months. Gatchalian also noted the absence of any third-party auditor to monitor POGO revenues after PAGCOR revoked the license of Global ComRCI due to fraudulent representations.
“The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) would like to reiterate its firm commitment to uphold the integrity of the gaming industry in the Philippines, including offshore gaming,” the agency’s statement said.
“PAGCOR is now in the process of engaging a capable and reputable third-party auditor who can independently and accurately conduct verification of the offshore gaming licensees’ gross gaming revenues.
“Further, PAGCOR reassures the public that to maintain the integrity of regulated gaming in the country, the state-run firm will not hesitate to impose appropriate sanctions or penalties to erring licensees or service providers. We will ensure that all revenues from regulated gaming will continue to support the government’s nation-building efforts and uplift the lives of Filipinos.”
This is the second time PAGCOR has issued a public statement in support of its POGO industry in 2023 alone, although PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco previously stated he would have no qualms shutting the industry down if he deemed it necessary.
Among the concerns raised by Senator Gatchalian are that POGOs have failed to provide the economic benefits promised while leading to an increase in crime and damaging the Philippines’ relationship with mainland China.
