Up to 80 percent of the 400 Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hubs in the country have closed in recent years, according to a report by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor).
Pagcor Chairman Alejandro Tengco said the remaining POGOs in the country are mostly small operations that are currently being monitored.
"Increasing concerns about POGO operations, including crimes related to it, caused the industry to collapse," Tengco said in an interview.
He added that those who wish to continue with POGO will have to go through stricter regulation and monitoring to ensure that they comply with Philippine laws and policies.
Meanwhile, the government continues to evaluate the impact of POGO on the country's economy, particularly on employment and tax revenue.
Tengco also placed emphasis on striking a balance between allowing POGO operations and protecting the country's interests, including the security and well-being of Filipinos.
Currently, the authorities continue to assess the remaining POGO operations to ensure their compliance with the regulations.
