MANILA, Philippines – In a bold move that has sent shockwaves through the online gambling industry in the Philippines, President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the shutdown of all Chinese-run online gambling operations in the country, a move that is expected to affect over 100,000 employees.
The announcement was made during a press conference at the Malacañang Palace on Tuesday, where Duterte expressed his concern over the rise of illegal online gambling activities in the country.
“We cannot allow the proliferation of illegal gambling activities in our country, especially those run by foreign nationals,” Duterte said. “We must protect our citizens from the negative effects of online gambling, such as addiction and financial ruin.”
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has been tasked with implementing the shutdown of all Chinese-run online gambling operations in the country. According to PAGCOR Chairperson Andrea Domingo, the agency has already started issuing cease and desist orders to all affected companies.
“It is a difficult decision to make, but we must prioritize the welfare of our people,” Domingo said. “We have to ensure that all online gambling activities in the country are legal and properly regulated.”
The decision to shut down the Chinese-run online gambling industry has been met with mixed reactions from different sectors. Some, like Senator Risa Hontiveros, have praised the move as a step towards curbing the influx of Chinese nationals in the country and protecting Filipino workers.
However, others, such as labor groups and industry insiders, have expressed concerns over the loss of jobs and revenue that will result from the shutdown. According to reports, the online gambling industry in the Philippines generates billions of pesos in revenue each year and employs thousands of Filipinos in various roles.
The Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) industry, which caters mainly to Chinese clients, has been under scrutiny in recent years for its alleged involvement in money laundering, human trafficking, and tax evasion. The government’s decision to shut down the industry is seen as a way to address these issues and protect the country’s reputation.
While the exact timeline for the shutdown of Chinese-run online gambling operations has not been specified, Duterte has urged affected companies to cooperate and comply with the government’s orders.
“We must put an end to the proliferation of illegal online gambling in the country,” Duterte said. “We want to make sure that all activities in our jurisdiction are above board and in accordance with our laws.”
As the online gambling industry in the Philippines braces for the impact of the government’s decision, many are left wondering about the future of the thousands of workers who will be affected by the shutdown. The government has promised to provide support and assistance to those who will lose their jobs, but the uncertainty remains for many who have relied on the industry for their livelihoods.
