Tightened regulation, stricter visa scrutiny, and restrictions on fund flows have led this industry, once reliant on "grey areas," toward its conclusion. The shift, from initial dreams of quick wealth to the current need to replan careers, reflects profound changes within the Philippine gaming industry.

Around 2019, the Philippine POGO industry experienced a rapid growth period. Large numbers of Chinese national employees gathered in gaming hubs in Makati, Clark, and other areas, generating considerable revenue primarily through online gambling operations. These hubs were equipped with comprehensive accommodation and work facilities, creating relatively closed operational systems. Most employees entered on tourist visas, engaging in gambling promotion under the guise of "customer service" or "technology" roles. At the industry's peak, individual hubs could generate millions of dollars in monthly revenue, becoming a significant local economic contributor.

Impact of Regulatory Policies

Since 2023, the Philippine government has intensified its crackdown on the POGO sector. The Immigration Bureau strengthened visa reviews, the central bank strictly monitored fund flows, and law enforcement conducted multiple joint clearing operations. These measures directly resulted in the closure of numerous gaming hubs, with many employees facing visa expiration and frozen bank accounts. According to incomplete statistics, over a hundred POGO-related businesses in the Manila area alone have ceased operations, affecting tens of thousands of Chinese workers who are now actively seeking new employment paths.

Worker Transition and New Directions

In the face of major industry changes, former POGO employees are actively pursuing career transitions. Some are choosing to return home, entering sectors like ride-sharing and e-commerce; others are shifting to related work in other Southeast Asian countries; and a segment is exploring legitimate businesses such as cross-border e-commerce and tourism services. Although this transition process is full of challenges, it compels workers to re-evaluate the sustainability of their career plans and explore more stable development routes.

Industry Outlook and Future Implications

The adjustment of the Philippine POGO sector signals that the global offshore gaming market is entering a new phase of development. Stricter regulation worldwide has become an inevitable trend, making compliance and legal employment the industry's mainstream. While this shift brings short-term pain, it is beneficial for establishing a healthy and orderly market environment in the long run. For the workers, this also serves as an opportunity to replan their careers, guiding them toward more sustainable directions.