Philippines' Crackdown on Illegal Gambling Yields Positive Results with Thousands Arrested

In recent months, the Philippines has witnessed a significant increase in arrests related to illegal gambling operations, particularly online gaming.

According to the Philippine National Police (PNP), approximately 41,000 individuals have been apprehended since the start of the year as part of targeted efforts to combat illicit gambling activities.

The crackdown on illegal gambling comes at a time when the country's gaming industry is undergoing a major transformation. Certain forms of online gambling, such as Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and eSabong, gained popularity but were marred by corruption and criminal activities, leading to their downfall.

POGOs, which once generated substantial revenue for the Philippines, faced challenges when attempts were made to raise their tax rates. As a result, some operators resorted to illicit practices like human trafficking and exploitation. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and lawmakers have been actively purging the sector of its criminal elements, revoking numerous POGO licenses. However, there is growing support among lawmakers for a complete ban on POGOs.

Similarly, eSabong, an online platform for betting on cockfights, faced significant controversies due to corruption. Despite being a lucrative source of revenue, corruption-related incidents, including missing individuals and kidnapping cases involving police officers, tarnished its reputation. eSabong was ultimately banned in May 2022, but illicit wagering continues, placing additional pressure on law enforcement.

To combat illegal gambling, Major General Benjamin Acorda, Jr., the newly appointed head of the National Police, has bolstered various departments and granted them greater authority. The PNP's Anti-Cybercrime Group has been working diligently to address the issue, although Acorda acknowledges the challenges posed by existing legislation, which lacks sufficient provisions regarding online gambling.

To support the PNP's efforts, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) and PAGCOR are lending their assistance. The PCSO, responsible for raising funds for national health programs through lotteries and sweepstakes, works closely with President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos. PAGCOR, despite recent clashes with legislators, is actively involved in the crackdown, tightening licensing regulations and participating in the Clark Security Advisory Council.

These collaborative endeavors aim to combat illegal gambling from multiple angles, providing a significant boost to the PNP's operations. Although the eradication of illegal gambling entirely may be challenging, the concerted efforts and heightened scrutiny can help prevent its proliferation and curb its negative impact.

By fLEXI tEAM