Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) spokesperson Winston Casio on Saturday said the commission is seeking the gradual phaseout of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) rather than an immediate ban.
During a Quezon City forum, Casio suggested that a phased approach would be more effective in eliminating illegal operations linked to POGOs.
“So, maybe before we jump into talking about a complete ban, we could go back and talk about phasing it out,” Casio said.
According to him, there are just 42 legally operating POGOs in the Philippines, mainly in Metro Manila and Kawit, Cavite.
The government has revoked 298 POGO licenses, but many operators continue to run illegal operations nationwide.
Casio noted that decisions on POGOs are policy issues beyond his authority.
He emphasized deferring to Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin to implement a policy on the issue.
