Recently, the Philippine Interior Minister Jovic Remulla issued a strong directive, requiring all local government agencies to submit the final implementation report on the crackdown on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) by January 10th.
According to reports from media such as "The Philippine Star", this action marks the Philippine government's further intensification of its comprehensive crackdown on illegal gambling.
In a memorandum signed on January 2nd, Remulla explicitly stated that all local government departments nationwide must stop issuing business licenses and internet gambling-related licenses to POGOs. He emphasized: "Local governments must absolutely prohibit any form of operation and expansion of POGOs and other offshore gaming operators within their jurisdictions."
To ensure the implementation of the order, Remulla specifically requested all levels of government to report any businesses suspected of being involved with online gambling to the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of the Interior's field officers. He warned that despite the issuance of Executive Order No. 74, which completely prohibits POGOs, some localities may still have violations, and local governments need to remain highly vigilant.
Remulla pointed out that local governments have the responsibility to conduct regular inspections of all commercial establishments in their jurisdictions to ensure that there are no POGOs or other illegal gambling operators engaging in covert operations. Additionally, Article 5 of Executive Order No. 74 also explicitly requires local government departments to fully cooperate and enforce the ban, and to develop and implement measures against gambling activities in accordance with the Local Government Code of 1991.
The Department of the Interior stated that law enforcement agencies are intensifying their efforts to crack down on illegal gambling activities, and any violations by POGOs will be strictly monitored. Minister Remulla once again called on local governments to take decisive action and work closely with national departments to completely eradicate the breeding ground for illegal gambling.
This action demonstrates the Philippine government's determination and strength in combating illegal gambling, with the nation focusing on the final rectification report due on January 10th, and the effectiveness of these measures is highly anticipated.
