DILG: Submit POGO crackdown final report by Jan. 10

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.

- BELLA CARIASO

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.