DILG: Submit POGO crackdown final report by January 10

MANILA, Philippines — Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla has given all local government units (LGUs) until Jan. 10 to submit their final reports on the crackdown on all Philippine offshore gaming operations in their respective jurisdictions after the total ban on POGOs took effect on Dec. 31 last year.

In his Memorandum Circular 2025-001 issued on Jan. 2 and addressed to all governors, mayors, punong barangays and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) regional directors, Remulla stated that LGUs should ensure non-renewal of all business permits and licenses of POGOs and all internet gaming licenses (IGLs).

“(There should be) absolute prohibition on the operation and proliferation of POGOs/IGLs and other offshore gaming operators within their areas of jurisdiction,” he said.

He added that LGUs should report to the Philippine National Police (PNP) and DILG field officers any business entity involved in POGOs/IGLs or offshore gaming operations or services, despite the implementation of Executive Order (EO) 74, or the total ban of POGOs in the country.

“(There should be) regular inspection of business establishments in their jurisdiction to ensure no clandestine operations of POGOs/IGLs,” the DILG chief said.

President Marcos announced the total ban on all POGOs during his third State of the Nation Address in July last year, citing the growing concerns over their negative impact.

Remulla said EO 74 was issued to provide direction on the immediate ban of POGOs, internet gaming  and other offshore gaming operations in the Philippines.

“Section 5 thereof enjoins all local government units to fully support and contribute measures to effectively implement the foregoing ban on offshore gaming services and operations within their respective jurisdictions, consistent with their power to enact ordinances intended to prevent, suppress and impose appropriate penalties for gambling and other prohibited games of chance under Sections 447, 458 and 468 of Republic Act 7160, or the Local Government Code of 1991, as amended,” he added.

The DILG chief reiterated that all POGOs are covered by the ongoing intensified crackdown on illegal gambling activities being