CEZA Administrator pushes for more efficient online gaming regulations

Katrina Ponce-Enrile, CEZA Administrator and CEO


The administrator of the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA) in the Philippines, Katrina Ponce-Enrile, suggests that the country should tighten regulations on the online gaming sector, but without imposing excessive barriers for investors. “Since 2001, we have been granting interactive gaming licenses, as opposed to offshore gaming licenses,” Ponce-Enrile explained, distinguishing from what are now known as Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs).

She emphasized that this approach has created a favorable atmosphere for gaming operators to thrive, ensuring consumer safety and the integrity of the market. Ponce-Enrile shared these insights at the ASEAN Gaming Summit in Manila, a key event for the gaming industry.

The executive pointed out that this successful model was compromised when greed led to a shift in the industry dynamics. She highlighted that Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) have been associated with criminal activities due to other regulators’ failure to properly oversee and control their areas of responsibility, clarifying that her comments were not directed at the current government.

Ponce-Enrile mentioned that the absence of strict supervision and enforcement allowed criminal groups to abuse the system and conduct their operations freely, damaging the image of lawful gaming entities.

She affirmed that CEZA continues to offer a robust regulatory framework for operators, facilitating their business growth as a regulatory body. CEZA is set to introduce an online licensing application system in April, aiming to streamline the process and ensure compliance with other governmental bodies.

Ponce-Enrile also noted the potential for significant growth in the online gaming industry within the Asia-Pacific region, fueled by increased smartphone penetration, a growing digital consumer base, and the ongoing legalization of online gambling. She projected that the region would experience a compound annual growth rate of over 12 percent until 2030, with 333 million new mobile internet users by 2025.

Having a more streamlined application process, especially when done online, helps build transparency and trust in the online gaming industry. A one-stop-shop could be even proposed to help not just with the the gaming license but also make sure all proper government permits are secured. The online gaming industry is set for bigger growth and these things would greatly help.

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