The Bureau of Immigration (BI) expressed its full support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s signing of Republic Act No. 12312, or the Anti-POGO Act of 2025, which institutionalizes the nationwide ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said that the new law is a firm step toward safeguarding national security and maintaining public order.
“We fully support the President’s leadership in putting an end to POGO operations. This landmark law affirms our collective commitment to protecting our borders from criminal syndicates that exploit offshore gaming to engage in human trafficking, cybercrime, and other forms of organized criminal activity,” Viado said.
The BI chief emphasized that the Bureau has long been at the forefront of identifying and deporting foreign nationals linked to illegal online gaming hubs, many of which have been found to engage in fraud, torture, and human trafficking.
“The Anti-POGO Act sends a strong message that the Philippines will not tolerate any activity that undermines our national security, economic integrity, or the welfare of our people. We will continue to enforce the law with the full force of our mandate,” Viado added.
President Marcos signed Republic Act No. 12312 on October 23, 2025, repealing Republic Act No. 11590, which previously imposed taxes on offshore gaming licensees and service providers. The President first imposed a ban on offshore and internet gaming through Executive Order No. 74 in November 2024, citing its links to crimes such as human trafficking and torture.
Under the new law, violators will face imprisonment of up to 12 years and fines of up to P50 million. Foreign offenders will be deported after serving their sentence and permanently banned from re-entering the country.
“The Bureau of Immigration stands firmly with the President in implementing this historic reform. This is a victory for law enforcement, for good governance, and most importantly, for the Filipino people,” Viado said.