PAGCOR Clarifies Non-Association with Illegal Online Gaming Operations
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has recently addressed claims about the closure of numerous illicit online gaming activities. Reports earlier suggested that 175 Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) were shut down by PAGCOR, leading to the deportation of around 40,000 Chinese workers. However, PAGCOR’s latest statement clarifies that those engaged in illegal activities are not connected to authorized POGOs.
SJM Holdings Announces Ho as Official Representative
In a related development, SJM Holdings announced that Ho would take on the role of official representative. Ho will handle all formal business interactions and liaise with the Macau SAR Government, company subsidiaries, and other entities, as stated by SJM Holdings.
International Pressure on PAGCOR Over POGOs
PAGCOR is facing increased scrutiny internationally, especially from China, where most POGO operators direct their activities. The Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines, Huang Xilian, has publicly criticized POGOs. In response, PAGCOR’s statement clarified: “The agency would like to clarify that the activities of said individuals are not in any way related to legitimate POGOs. Entities conducting online gambling without PAGCOR’s approval are not recognized as POGOs.” PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco emphasized the rigorous monitoring of POGO operations, stating that entities failing to meet the requirements for an offshore gaming license cannot be considered legal offshore gaming operators.
Raid at Marina Cove by Johor Police Leads to Arrests
In a related incident, the Johor Police in Malaysia apprehended five men at a call centre in Marina Cove’s Tepian Bayu Apartments, disrupting an illegal online gambling ring. The suspects, aged between 20 and 40, were reportedly involved in credit transfer operations and promoting the syndicate’s online gambling platforms. Authorities seized laptops, mobile phones, WiFi routers, access cards, and a sum of RM3,950 ($850) during the raid. Johor Police Chief Datuk Kamarul Zaman Mamat disclosed that these operators received a basic salary and a commission per game.
In conclusion, PAGCOR stresses that “Any individual, group or entity conducting online gambling without PAGCOR’s authorization should not be considered a POGO,” highlighting its commitment to legal and regulated gambling operations.
Daisy Ho Takes Helm as Managing Director at SJM Resorts
SJM Resorts has announced the appointment of Daisy Ho as the new Managing Director, a decision ratified by the Chief Executive of the Macau SAR. Ho joined the SJM Board of Directors in March 2019 and holds a pivotal role as an Executive Director at SJM Holdings Limited, the parent entity of SJM, where her leadership journey continued as she was named Chairman in 2018.
An official statement from SJM highlighted the expanded scope of Ms. Ho’s role: “In her capacity as Managing Director, Ms. Daisy Ho is entrusted with broader managerial responsibilities and authority. She is designated as the principal representative of SJM, tasked with overseeing all key business interactions and engagements with the Macau SAR Government, in addition to liaising with subsidiaries and various external entities.
“Her responsibilities extend to managing the company’s daily operations and corporate affairs, which encompass devising strategies, setting goals, and planning investments. Ms. Ho will ensure that all company activities align with legal and regulatory requirements.”
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