Retired Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has raised concerns over the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation’s (PAGCOR) adherence to guidelines in issuing licenses to operate Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGOs). According to Justice Carpio, PAGCOR’s rules are not stringent enough in regulating these offshore gaming operations. He emphasized that POGOs have significant implications for national security and the economy.
Justice Carpio pointed out several loopholes in PAGCOR’s current regulations, including inadequate background checks on license applicants. This oversight allows unscrupulous operators to exploit the system, posing a threat to the country’s sovereignty. The former Associate Justice called on regulatory bodies to revisit their rules and ensure they are robust enough to prevent illicit activities associated with POGOs.