In recent developments, the Philippine government has issued Executive Order No. 74 to ban all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and offshore gaming activities. The enforcement of this order, effective December 31, 2024, means that PAGCOR's certification and licenses for offshore gaming will no longer be valid. This monumental shift in the gaming landscape comes with significant implications for both licensed operators and unsuspecting players.

PAGCOR Certification and Its Credibility

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has long been recognized as a regulatory authority overseeing gaming operations in the Philippines. Its ISO 9001:2015 certification signifies adherence to international quality standards, bolstering its reputation for fair and secure operations. However, the ban on offshore gaming raises questions about the future relevance of PAGCOR's accreditation in the global gaming market.

The Problem of Badge Misuse

Even before the issuance of Executive Order No. 74, fraudulent casinos have exploited PAGCOR’s certification and badge to mislead players into trusting their platforms. Scammers frequently:

• Display fake or outdated PAGCOR certifications on their websites.
• Use the PAGCOR logo to create a false sense of legitimacy.
• Operate under expired or invalid licenses while continuing to target players.

With PAGCOR's offshore gaming certifications becoming obsolete, these deceptive practices are likely to increase, as fraudsters capitalize on the confusion surrounding the transition.

Impact on Players

Players who rely on PAGCOR certification as a marker of trustworthiness are particularly vulnerable to scams. Common pitfalls include:

• Fake Payout Guarantees: Players are promised winnings that are never delivered.
• Data Theft: Fraudulent casinos collect personal and financial information under the guise of legal compliance.
• Deposit Loss: Deposits made to these platforms are often irretrievable.

AFG's Role in Combating Fraud

As part of our mission to promote fair and secure gaming practices, Anti-Fraud & Fair Gaming Alliance (AFG) urges players to:

1. Verify Casino Accreditations: Use trusted platforms like AFG’s Casino Search and Blacklist to check the legitimacy of a casino's credentials.
2. Avoid Suspicious Platforms: Be cautious of websites still displaying PAGCOR badges or certifications after December 31, 2024, as these are likely invalid.
3. Report Fraud: Utilize AFG’s Case Reporting Channel to flag suspicious operators and help protect others.

The VeriGuard TrustMark: A Reliable Alternative

To safeguard players in this uncertain landscape, AFG offers the VeriGuard TrustMark as a more reliable certification for online casinos. The VeriGuard program ensures:

• Transparent payment systems.
• Player deposit protection through ShieldBet.
• Ongoing compliance monitoring to maintain accreditation.

With three tiers of accreditation—Standard, Pro, and Elite—VeriGuard-certified casinos uphold the highest standards of fairness, security, and transparency.

Conclusion

As PAGCOR’s offshore gaming certifications are rendered obsolete, it is crucial for players to remain vigilant against fraudulent casinos misusing this badge. AFG is committed to providing a safer gaming environment through reliable accreditation, community engagement, and tools to empower players. Stay informed, stay protected, and always trust verified platforms like AFG for a fair gaming experience.