Philippines Clamps Down on Offshore Gambling: PAGCOR Revokes Licenses

Nitara4779

"Recently, the Philippine regulatory body for gambling, PAGCOR (Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation), announced a crackdown on illegal offshore gambling. The organization revoked licenses of offshore gambling operators engaged in illicit activities and issued a suspension order to a company named CGC Technologies (CGC). The aim of this action is to uphold the legality and safety of the gambling industry and protect the rights of players.

Earlier, some licensed offshore gambling operators (POGO) were closed down due to allegations of credit card fraud, severe illegal detention, and human trafficking activities. These actions seriously violated industry norms and ethical standards, causing significant harm to players and society. PAGCOR has expressed zero tolerance for such activities and has taken further action.

CGC Technologies is a licensed offshore gambling customer relationship service provider. However, PAGCOR discovered that the company operated multiple buildings in Clark Freeport Zone, with only two of them holding legitimate PAGCOR licenses. This raised suspicions, leading to an investigation by PAGCOR.

In a joint operation, the Philippine National JC Anti-Cybercrime Group, Special Action Force, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission-Intelligence Organization, and Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking participated in the investigation of CGC Technologies. They successfully seized six CGC Technologies buildings in Clark Freeport Zone and confiscated over a thousand computers and equipment. Currently, these devices are under investigation, and CGC Technologies' licenses are pending revocation.

PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco expressed full support for the authorities' decision to repatriate foreign nationals rescued during the operation. These foreigners include individuals from Indonesia, Vietnam, Nepal, Bhutan, and China. He emphasized that PAGCOR will continue to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to ensure a safe and responsible gambling environment for the people of the Philippines and other nations. Only through standardized and responsible gambling can the occurrence of all criminal activities associated with gambling be minimized.

In summary, the Philippine gambling regulatory body, PAGCOR, is cracking down severely on illegal offshore gambling. They have revoked licenses, conducted investigations, and collaborated with law enforcement agencies to ensure the legality and safety of the gambling industry. This action demonstrates PAGCOR's strict oversight of the gambling sector and commitment to safeguarding players' rights. By combatting illicit activities, they aim to provide a secure and honest gambling environment and reduce the incidence of criminal activities related to gambling."

Kapil334

It appears that regulations are becoming stricter. Let's see what the outcome will be.

Indra55

With this move, it's likely that some unlicensed and less regulated small companies may face closure. I see these unlicensed small companies as akin to roadside stalls. Despite their irregularities, most of them aspire to conduct their business properly and eventually grow and thrive. So, from my perspective, this isn't necessarily good news. In my opinion, having more licensed gambling companies, including both established and newer ones, could be a better approach. Perhaps these irregular small companies, after a few years of experience and challenges, might also develop into legitimate businesses.

Ruchika55

It would be helpful if someone experienced could provide a summary of which companies in the market are legitimate with licenses and which ones are unlicensed small operations.

Sona59

Let's not be too harsh; everyone is trying to make a living, and it's not easy for anyone.

Kahn332

There are certainly illegal gambling operations everywhere; they tend to generate even higher profits that way.

Janak9955

Illegal gambling will always be a challenge to combat. Everyone should exercise caution when choosing companies for their entertainment.