Philippines Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla has stated that the majority of the country’s drug syndicates were connected to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). He highlighted the sector’s alleged ties to organized crime. Speaking to local media on Tuesday, Remulla claimed that many syndicates operating between 2016 and 2025 were led by Chinese nationals. These individuals entered the country using visas linked to offshore gaming operations.
POGOs Described as a National Plague
“Those POGOs have become a plague on the Philippines. Every illegal activity from 2016 up to 2025 is due to POGOs,” Remulla asserted. He added that authorities believe almost all apprehended syndicates were headed by individuals associated with offshore gaming. This reinforces the perception of widespread criminal activity tied to the sector.
The remarks come more than a year after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. implemented a nationwide ban on POGOs, effective in 2025. This action followed growing concerns over scams, human trafficking, and other illegal activities linked to the industry.
Crackdown Coincides with Massive Drug Destruction
Remulla made the comments during an event in Trece Martires City. At the event, authorities oversaw the destruction of PHP4.56 billion ($81.5 million) worth of seized illegal drugs. This demonstration showed the government’s commitment to addressing narcotics alongside illegal gambling concerns.
Economic Impact of POGOs
Despite their alleged criminal links, POGOs were once a significant contributor to the Philippine economy. At their peak between 2017 and 2019, offshore gaming operators generated billions of pesos in government revenue. They contributed through licensing fees, taxes, and related economic activities. In addition, they boosted demand in the office and residential leasing markets.
Introduced under the Duterte administration in 2016, POGOs expanded rapidly. However, compliance issues and reports of criminal involvement drew increasing scrutiny. This ultimately culminated in the government’s nationwide ban in 2025.
