MANILA, Philippines — To prevent banned offshore gaming entities from operating underground within local communities, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has enforced stricter guidelines on the issuance and renewal of local business permits.
In DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2026-054 released on Thursday, October 15, local government units (LGUs) are mandated to carry out regular, random inspections prior to approving or renewing commercial licenses.
The department noted that this safety measure is required “particularly for commercial establishments and high-rise buildings, when applicable.’’
The updated regulatory framework is designed to thwart the persistence of prohibited Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs), and cyber scam hubs across the country. It reinforces the local enforcement of Republic Act No. 12312, also known as the Anti-POGO Act of 2025, which implements a blanket ban on these operations and designates the DILG as part of the Administrative Oversight Committee.
As part of compliance, LGUs must compile inventory lists of properties previously linked to POGOs, IGLs, and scam operations, alongside records of permits revoked prior to the circular.
Furthermore, the DILG stated that “they are likewise required to report their anti-POGO operations and corresponding results, where applicable.’’
Beginning January 15, 2027, all local governments must submit annual notarized certifications to regional DILG offices verifying the total absence of these illegal entities within their localities, a requirement that will repeat every January 15 thereafter.
Meanwhile, areas with active or historical records of such operations are bound to submit immediate special reports to regional directors.
Local authorities have also been instructed to foster tight coordination with law enforcement bodies, including the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, Philippine National Police (PNP), and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
The PNP and sister agencies will assist local chief executives in inspecting suspicious venues, terminating operations, and arresting individuals involved in unlawful gambling.
The DILG emphasized that “they (LGUs) must also coordinate with concerned agencies in conducting joint investigations, enforcement operations, and intelligence sharing,’’ aiming to establish stronger local accountability against illicit offshore activities.