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The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has suggested alien hacking and scam syndicates (AHaSS) are a ‘true threat’ to national security, not the legitimate and licensed offshore gaming operators known as POGOs.
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco emphasised that legitimate Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs) are significant contributors to the government, generating over PHP$5bn (US$85m) for PAGCOR’s gross revenues in 2023.
“The real threat comes from alien hacking and scam syndicates operating underground. Our law enforcement agencies are working to locate and dismantle these groups, and we are fully cooperating with them,” said Tengco. He urged the public to report any suspicious activities in their communities, noting that these criminal syndicates are often armed and dangerous.
Tengco also defended licensed gaming operators, stating that these operators are closely monitored by PAGCOR, which ensured that said operators paid their taxes accordingly and provided legitimate employment to the people.
PAGCOR has monitoring teams embedded in the physical venues of all licensed gaming operators, including land-based casinos, to ensure compliance with licensing terms. Operators found violating their licences face fines and penalties, and in severe cases, revocation of their licences and forfeiture of bonds.
PAGCOR’s stance highlights the importance of differentiating between legal gaming operators and underground criminal activities, focusing on enhancing security and law enforcement efforts against cyber-criminals.
The recent arrest of illegal POGOs by PAOCC was a highlight in law enforcement efforts, where Senator Hontiveros has voiced her concerns regarding a possible information leak prior to the arrests.
