Senate Approves Anti-POGO Act to Safeguard Filipinos
The Senate recently approved Senate Bill No. 2868, known as the Anti-POGO Act of 2025. This significant law aims to ban offshore gaming operations and implement strong protections for the Filipino people. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, emphasized that the welfare of Filipinos must not be sacrificed for the sake of illegal and harmful businesses.
“The welfare of the people should not be compromised in favor of illegal and dirty businesses,” Gatchalian stressed. He also highlighted that this legislation is more than just a law; it answers the people’s call to end the problems caused by POGOs.
Repealing Republic Act 11590
The Anti-POGO Act of 2025 repeals Republic Act 11590, which had previously legalized Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators. Once enacted, the law will require the forfeiture of all properties and equipment related to POGO activities. This measure aims to prevent these assets from being reused in unlawful operations.
Senator Risa Hontiveros, who led investigations into crimes linked to POGOs, welcomed the bill’s approval. She expressed gratitude to the committee chair for incorporating her proposed amendments, which stemmed from key findings during the Alice Guo investigation.
Other Senate Bills Approved
On June 9, the Senate also approved several other important bills, including:
– Senate Bill No. 2821, the Accelerated and Reformed Right of Way Act
– Senate Bill No. 2982, the Judiciary Fiscal Autonomy Act
– Senate Bill No. 2899, the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Act
– Senate Bill No. 2903, the Revised Philippine Coast Guard Law
– Senate Bill No. 2969, the National Aviation Academy of the Philippines Charter Act
– Senate Bill No. 2999, the Declaration of State of Imminent Disaster Act
– Senate Bill No. 2613, the Equitable Access to Sha’riah Courts
– Senate Bill No. 3000, the Career Progression System for Public School Teachers and School Leaders Act
The Senate is scheduled to adjourn sessions on June 11, 2025. Local leaders noted that these legislative actions mark a crucial step toward addressing pressing national issues.
For more news and updates on offshore gaming operations, visit Filipinokami.com.