THE total closure of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) in the country won’t have a significant impact on the economy, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla said on Wednesday.

In a press briefing, Remulla addressed the possible effects on the economy of the impending closure of all POGOs in the country.

“As per NEDA, .25 of 1 percent of total GDP (gross domestic product) ang maaapektuhan. We don’t see a significant dent sa economy natin,” Remulla explained.

“I think ma-make up naman ‘yan sa mga iba pang mga revenue enhancing measures ng Department of Finance,” he added.

According to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor), the government is expected to lose at least P20 billion annually with the expected shutdown of POGOs.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. last month issued Executive Order No. 74 implementing the immediate ban on POGOs in the country.

Remulla warned POGOs should “wind down” starting December 15 as they will be closed by Dec. 31.

Remulla said he will personally oversee the closure of a POGO hub in Island Cove in Kawit, Cavite on December 15 to show the government’s resolve in shutting down POGO operations in the country. PCO

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