President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed into law Republic Act (RA) 12312, officially known as the “Anti-POGO Act of 2025,” which mandates the institutionalized ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) throughout the country.
The landmark legislation, signed today, October 23, 2025, effectively repeals Republic Act No. 11590, which previously governed the taxation of POGOs and their service providers operating in the Philippines. The signing formalizes the government’s decisive action against the offshore gaming industry.
The new law underscores the State’s commitment to core values, stating, “The State recognizes that the maintenance of peace and order, the protection of life, liberty, and property, and the promotion of the general welfare are paramount for the meaningful enjoyment of democracy. The State likewise values the dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for human rights.”
This legislative action follows President Marcos Jr.’s earlier declaration and executive measure against POGOs. In November 2024, the President issued Executive Order No. 74, imposing an immediate ban on offshore and internet gaming, citing significant national security and public order risks. During his State of the Nation Address on July 22, 2024, President Marcos highlighted the link between POGO hubs and serious crimes, including human trafficking and torture, declaring that the ban is essential to resolve many of the problems the nation is facing.
The “Anti-POGO Act of 2025” originated from Senate Bill No. 2868, passed by the Senate on June 9, 2025, and subsequently adopted by the House of Representatives as an amendment to House Bill No. 10987 on June 11, 2025.
The Act introduces strict penalties for violations:
- First Offense: Imprisonment of 6 to 8 years and a fine between PhP300,000 and PhP15 million.
- Second Offense: Imprisonment of 8 years and 1 day to 10 years and a fine between PhP15 million and PhP30 million.
- Third Offense: Imprisonment of 10 years and 1 day to 12 years and a fine between PhP30 million and PhP50 million.
Furthermore, public officials or employees found in violation will face the maximum penalty under the applicable category. Foreign nationals guilty of the offense will be immediately deported after serving their sentence and permanently banned from re-entering the Philippines.
The institutionalization of the POGO ban is a major stride in the administration’s efforts to safeguard public order and uphold the rule of law.
