The recent ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) has sparked widespread concern among stakeholders in the gaming industry.
RGB’s Assurance to Stakeholders
RGB has proactively communicated to its stakeholders that the POGO ban will not impact its business. This assurance stems from the fact that RGB’s slot machines are exclusively sold to licensed integrated resorts, casinos, and slot club operators under the regulation of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). By emphasizing that none of its machines were sold to POGOs, RGB has sought to alleviate any concerns about potential disruptions to its business operations in the Philippines.
Statement from RGB
RGB has reiterated its commitment to its existing customer base and stakeholders, highlighting the integrity of its business operations. The company clarified, “None of our slot machines were sold to POGOs. Our machines in the Philippines are only sold to licensed integrated resorts, casinos, and slot club operators under PAGCOR.” This statement underscores RGB’s adherence to regulatory compliance and its strategic focus on legitimate gaming venues.
DigiPlus Reaffirms Its Position
In a similar vein, DigiPlus, a Philippines-based gaming company known for its 24/7 online bingo operations, has also reassured the public that the POGO ban does not affect its services. DigiPlus emphasized that it operates as a local company with a physical presence and not as a POGO. The company further highlighted that it holds licenses from PAGCOR to offer a variety of gaming services, including traditional bingo, electronic bingo games, electronic gaming services, sports betting, specialty games, and poker.
DigiPlus’s Commitment to Regulatory Compliance
DigiPlus has underscored its commitment to regulatory compliance and its distinct operational model. The company’s statement read, “We are a local operator with an actual location, not a POGO. We have secured licenses from PAGCOR to operate traditional bingo, electronic bingo games, electronic gaming services, sports betting, specialty games, and poker.” This clarification aims to distinguish DigiPlus from offshore operators and reassure its stakeholders of the continuity of its services.
Industry Implications
The proactive communication from RGB and DigiPlus highlights a broader trend among gaming companies operating in the Philippines. In the wake of the POGO ban, it has become increasingly important for brands to communicate their operational stability and regulatory compliance. By doing so, these companies can mitigate uncertainty and reinforce stakeholder confidence.
Strategic Positioning
For companies like RGB and DigiPlus, the current regulatory environment presents an opportunity to strengthen their market position. By emphasizing their adherence to local regulations and distancing themselves from the controversies surrounding POGOs, these companies can enhance their reputational capital and attract new business opportunities.
The recent POGO ban in the Philippines has created a landscape of uncertainty for many gaming operators. However, companies like RGB and DigiPlus have taken proactive steps to reassure their stakeholders and customers. By emphasizing their regulatory compliance and distinct operational models, these companies have positioned themselves as stable and reliable players in the Philippine gaming industry. This strategic communication not only mitigates potential concerns but also underscores the importance of transparency and adherence to local regulations in maintaining business continuity and stakeholder confidence.