Content Writer: Janice Chew • Tuesday, 25/09/2025 - 17:30:45 - PM
PAGCOR has pledged ₱50 million (US$860,000) to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to combat illegal gambling and clamp down on banned Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). Under the Memorandum of Agreement signed in Pasay City, an initial ₱25 million was released immediately to support enforcement and detainee-related expenses. PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro Tengco highlighted that the collaboration reflects the regulator’s dual role of generating revenues and safeguarding industry integrity.
The NBI welcomed the funding, with Director Jaime Santiago stating that it would bolster their operational capacity to pursue unlawful POGOs and other illicit gaming fronts. PAGCOR stressed that illegal gambling undermines national laws, exploits communities, and damages the regulated sector’s credibility.
This initiative comes as PAGCOR grapples with mounting challenges: over 60% of gambling websites accessed domestically are unlicensed, while recent e-wallet restrictions have squeezed the legal iGaming market . Lawmakers continue debating whether to ban or strictly regulate online gambling, making PAGCOR’s strengthened law enforcement partnerships a key step in maintaining control over the sector .