Philippine and Chinese law enforcement agencies carried out a joint operation on Thursday, successfully repatriating more than 30 Chinese nationals involved in offshore online gaming operations. The Chinese embassy in Manila confirmed the action, describing it as the fourth repatriation effort this year.
This latest operation follows the Philippine government’s firm stance against Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), which authorities ordered to cease all activity by the end of 2024. In response, the Chinese embassy reiterated its commitment to working closely with Philippine counterparts to ensure the safe and orderly return of citizens involved in POGO-linked activities. Additionally, the embassy emphasized its intent to protect the legal rights of Chinese nationals during the process.
During his State of the Nation Address on July 22, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced the mandatory shutdown of POGOs. That declaration also ushered in a new regulatory era with the introduction of Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs) as successors. Notably, the Chinese embassy welcomed this decision and reaffirmed that Chinese law prohibits all forms of gambling, both domestically and abroad.
Furthermore, Thursday’s operation adds to three earlier repatriation rounds conducted in August, September, and just one week prior. With this latest effort, authorities have repatriated approximately 360 Chinese citizens involved in offshore gaming operations since the start of the year.
Philippine authorities have also vowed to clamp down on unlicensed or underground POGO sites that continue to operate despite the ban. Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, during a press briefing at Malacañang Palace, acknowledged the persistence of so-called “guerrilla operations.” However, he asserted that the government remains committed to tracking down and shutting these down.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) confirmed that it would revoke all remaining POGO licenses by December 15. PAGCOR Chairperson Alejandro Tengco revealed that only seven licensed POGOs currently remain active—an enormous drop from the over 300 POGO and IGL licenses granted prior to the President’s announcement.
As the crackdown continues, authorities expect further cooperation between China and the Philippines to help dismantle illicit gambling operations and enforce the law more effectively across both jurisdictions.
