The Philippine government has officially shut down the largest Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) facility in Kawit, Cavite. This move is part of the administration’s sweeping effort to end all offshore gaming operations in the country by December 31, 2024, as mandated by Executive Order 74 signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, along with PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro Tengco, PAOCC Executive Director Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz, and PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, led the ceremonial closure of the 33-hectare compound, which previously operated as a resort under the name Covelandia.

“The directive to shut down POGO operations reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining public order and addressing concerns associated with the industry,” Remulla stated, according to Philippine News Agency. He confirmed that all operations at the Cavite facility had ceased by November 30, with no power supply or business activity remaining on the premises.

The shutdown marks the end of operations for a facility that housed 57 buildings and employed 30,000 workers, half of whom were Filipinos. The complex included dormitories, gaming hubs, restaurants, and other amenities designed to support its workforce and operations.

Addressing Concerns and Moving Forward

The closure of POGO facilities, including the massive Covelandia hub, aligns with the administration’s broader efforts to tackle illegal activities associated with the industry. These include money laundering, human trafficking, and other forms of organized crime, which have been tied to offshore gaming operations.

Remulla emphasized that repurposing facilities like Covelandia is part of the government’s plan to generate economic benefits for local communities. “The government is determined to repurpose these facilities to better serve the public and contribute to the national economy,” he said.

PAGCOR’s Alejandro Tengco reiterated the agency’s commitment to the President’s directive: “This closure is a significant step toward ensuring that our regulatory measures align with the best interests of the country.” While the ban is expected to result in a revenue loss of PHP 20 billion, Tengco expressed optimism that new gaming licenses will offset these losses.

Crackdown on Guerrilla Operations

While all major POGO hubs have been officially shut down, authorities remain vigilant against smaller, illegal operations. Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz revealed that approximately 100 guerilla POGO operations have been identified across the country.

Cruz explained that the PAOCC, in coordination with local governments and the PNP, is intensifying efforts to locate and dismantle these operations. Indicators such as 24-hour lighting, frequent food deliveries, and excessive internet installations are being monitored as red flags for concealed activities.

PNP Chief Gen. Marbil assured the public of law enforcement’s readiness to enforce the ban and address security concerns. “We have Task Force Skimmer composed of the Anti-Cybercrime Group, and we are closely monitoring operations involving foreign nationals,” he stated.

A Historic End to Offshore Gaming

The shutdown of the POGO industry in the Philippines signifies a decisive shift in the country’s regulatory landscape. Initially established as a thriving sector for economic growth, the industry has faced mounting criticism over its links to crime and exploitation.

From its peak, when Covelandia employed thousands of workers and generated substantial revenue, to its ultimate closure under government orders, the POGO industry’s decline reflects changing priorities. As the government focuses on repurposing these facilities for community benefit, stakeholders await the next steps in reshaping the nation’s gaming and regulatory policies.