Philippines Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero has urged a comprehensive review of Philippine Inland Gaming Operators (PIGOs), raising concerns over their social impact and regulatory inconsistencies. He emphasized the need to determine whether these PAGCOR-licensed online gaming platforms should continue operating under current regulations.
Escudero pointed out the contradiction of banning Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) while allowing PIGOs to thrive. “POGOs were banned due to their impact on foreign nationals, yet PIGOs affect Filipinos directly. Are we truly protecting our people?” he questioned. He also raised suspicions that former POGO operators may be shifting into the PIGO sector, urging stricter monitoring.
The Senate President called on PAGCOR to conduct a transparent evaluation of PIGOs, weighing the industry’s economic contributions against its potential risks. “We need to ensure that the revenue generated does not come at the expense of Filipino welfare,” he stated.
Introduced in 2018, PIGOs allow local players to participate in online casinos, sports betting, and other gambling services. Unlike POGOs, which targeted international customers, PIGOs focus on the domestic market, with 44 licensed operators as of mid-2023.
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With concerns over problem gambling, money laundering, and weak oversight, Escudero’s push for a review signals a possible regulatory overhaul for the sector. The debate over PIGO operations could reshape the future of online gaming in the Philippines.
