POGO Philippine Companies Closing Down: Where Will They Move Next?

To help bettors understand more about the online betting situation in the Philippines. Nice88 has published a general article about the departure of POGO.

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Overview of POGO Closures in the Philippines

The Philippines used to be a major hub for POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators) companies. However, the government decided to revoke the operating licenses of all iGaming Providers by the end of 2024, plunging the industry into crisis.

Reasons for Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators Closure

Security and Crime Issues: Reports of fraud, kidnapping, and cybercrime involving POGOs are on the rise.
Pressure from China: The Chinese government has repeatedly asked the Philippines to crack down on online gambling targeting Chinese citizens.
Declining Economic Contribution: After the pandemic, the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators industry no longer contributes significantly to the Philippine economy.

Where Will POGOs Move?

Under pressure to close, Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators are looking for new locations to continue operations. Here are some potential countries:

Cambodia

Pros: Formerly a major Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators hub, with a thriving casino system.
Cons: Online gambling ban since 2019 makes continuing operations here risky.

Laos

Pros: More flexible gambling policies, some special economic zones that can support POGOs.
Cons: Limited technology infrastructure and human resources.

UAE (United Arab Emirates)

Pros: UAE is gradually opening up to gambling, could be a new market.
Cons: Unclear regulations, high operating costs.

Latin America (Peru, Colombia, Costa Rica)

Pros: Legalized online gambling, open laws.
Disadvantages: Long geographical distance, difficult to reach Asian customers.

Caribbean Islands (Curacao, Malta, Isle of Man)

Advantages: Reputable online gambling licensing system, few legal barriers.
Disadvantages: High operating costs, fierce competition.

Vietnam

Although online gambling is not legal in Vietnam, there are reports of illegal online casinos operating.
However, operating in an environment without legal protection can pose many risks for businesses.

Malaysia and Indonesia

Both countries have strict regulations on gambling, especially online gambling.
Therefore, the possibility of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators companies moving here is quite low.

Impact on the Gambling Industry

Philippines Loss of Revenue: Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators used to generate $400 million in revenue per year.
Employee Migration: Tens of thousands of workers will lose their jobs or move with the company.
Change in Trends: POGOs may shift to legal operations in new areas.

New Ways Pogo Hub Works

Relocating

POGO companies may look to other countries in Southeast Asia or other parts of the world that have more open laws regarding online gambling. Some potential destinations include Cambodia, Laos, or some countries in Africa.
Relocating will require companies to set up new infrastructure, obtain operating licenses, and comply with local regulations.

Change Their Business Model

Some PO GO companies may shift to providing other information technology or online entertainment services that do not violate local laws.
They may focus on software development, customer support, or other activities that are not directly related to gambling.

Underground operations

Some companies will operate underground, and cause many consequences for society.

Conclude

The closure of this type of business in the Philippines has left the industry in a difficult position, forcing companies to look for new destinations. In the coming time, countries with flexible gambling policies such as Laos, UAE or Latin America may become new POGO hubs. However, legal risks and operating costs remain major challenges for businesses in this field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is POGO?

Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators stands for Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators. These are companies that provide online gambling services to customers overseas, mainly in China.

What is POGO in Philippines?

In the Philippines, PO-GO is a controversial industry that brings both economic benefits and social challenges. Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators companies are licensed to operate by PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation).

POGO meaning

PO GO stands for Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators.

What is POGO company?

Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators Company is a licensed online gambling business, serving players abroad.

Is POGO illegal in the philippines?

These types of companies are licensed to operate legally in the Philippines, but there are strict regulations on their operations. However, their operations are controversial.