News about another online gambling-related scandal in the Philippines emerged earlier today, when local media reported that 15 Chinese nationals were detained for participation in an illegal online gambling operation.
The individuals were arrested during a police raid at YD International Incorporated in Pasig City. Police officers also seized computers and other devices, which had allegedly been used for the illegal provision of online gambling services. YD International Incorporated does not hold a license from the Philippine gambling regulator, PAGCOR, as reported by local media, which means that it has no legal right to operate an online gambling business.
Complaints for violation of the Philippine illegal gambling and cybercrime prevention laws have been filed against all 15 detained individuals.
The announcement about the latest gambling-related arrests came three months after more than 1,200 Chinese nationals were detained for involvement in an illegal online gambling ring at the Fontana Leisure Parks & Casino resort in Clark Field.
The above-mentioned two instances of illicit iGaming activity arrests came as further manifestation of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s determination to conduct a massive crackdown on gambling in the country. President Duterte assumed office less than a year ago but has already made waves as the biggest enemy of all social ills. Online gambling has appeared on the radar screen of the country’s top official as one such social ill.
Last year, President Duterte said that he would crack down on illicit online gambling-related activities as soon as he had the necessary manpower to do this. As announced earlier this month, he has finally assembled the task force needed to proceed with his actions against wrong-doers.
Earlier this month, the official also signed Executive Order No. 13, a document that gave clearer definitions of what should be deemed illegal online gambling in the Philippines. Under the order, all iGaming operations within the country’s borders are absolutely prohibited. Online gambling operators can obtain licenses from PAGCOR, but only ones that allow them to provide iGaming services to non-Philippine nationals and to players located outside the Philippines.
The regulator together with the Philippine National Police and other law enforcement agencies will be vested with regulating and monitoring the licensed operators and with sanctioning everyone who violates the country’s gambling laws.
