The SOP formalises the implementation of the POGO Ban Act.
The Philippines.- Several Philippine government agencies have signed an interagency Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to strengthen the implementation of the nationwide ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). The SOP formalises the implementation of Executive Order No. 74 and Republic Act No. 12312, also known as the POGO Ban Act.
According to the Philippines News Agency, the new framework consolidates two POGO ban orders, along with 15 other laws and department orders into “one omnibus action plan,” covering intelligence gathering, operations, evidence handling, prosecution and asset preservation.
It establishes a “unified, legally compliant” workflow to address illegal gambling operations and related crimes. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) will serve as the principal coordinating agency, while the Department of Justice (DOJ) will embed prosecutors early in case buildup in an attempt to improve case quality and increase the likelihood of conviction.
The Anti-Money Laundering Council and the Securities and Exchange Commission will handle financial and corporate intelligence related to the “fruits of the illicit activities.” The SOP also covers the management and maintenance of seized assets.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto led the signing ceremony, stating that the new rules “put the final nail in the coffin” of offshore gaming operations and aim to prevent their “resurrection in a different form.”
Authorities recently claimed that there are no remaining POGO operations in the country.
The SOP formalises the implementation of the POGO Ban Act. The Philippines.- Several Philippine government agencies have signed an interagency Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to strengthen the implementation of the nationwide ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). The SOP formalises the implementation of Executive Order No. 74 and Republic Act No. 12312, also known…
