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Chinese casino owners in a Myanmar border town have been given a deadline of February 28 to leave, following a crackdown on online fraud and related activities. Chinese citizens who own casinos and other businesses in Myanmar border town Phaya Thonezu have until February 28 to wind down their operations.  Armed group Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) issued this memorandum to Chinese citizens in a statement. This move follows Thailand's recent decision to cut off electricity, fuel, and internet access to five Myanmar border regions, including Phaya Thonezu, in a bid to dismantle online fraud networks. The DKBA, in a statement reported by Eleven Media Group, cited the need to protect local residents and prevent the proliferation of online scam operations within the township, which borders Thailand's Kanchanaburi province. The group also announced a ban on further entry of Chinese nationals into Phaya Thonezu. This action comes shortly after the DKBA ordered the closure of all its own game shops and "Our Day" businesses in and around Myawaddy, another town in Kayin State. That directive, issued after an emergency meeting on January 31, aimed to ensure the well-being of DKBA members and their families. Phaya Thonezu, located in Kayin State along the Thai frontier, has become a hub for casino activity, attracting gamblers from neighboring countries where gambling is restricted. These casinos, while generating revenue, have also been linked to illicit activities, including money laundering and, increasingly, online fraud. The region's porous borders and complex governance structures have created an environment ripe for exploitation by criminal syndicates involved in cyber scams, human trafficking, and other transnational crimes. The crackdown by Thai authorities and the DKBA's subsequent order signal a growing regional effort to combat these criminal enterprises. Read related article:   China Repatriates 240 Gamblers, Fraudsters from Cambodia

Discover the top gamification trends revolutionizing the gambling industry in 2025. Gamification is more than just the latest trend; it’s a powerful tactic for player engagement. In 2025, operators are taking gamification to the next level, integrating new strategies that not only entertain but also build long-term loyalty. The leading B2B software provider Slotegrator explores the latest trends shaping the gamification landscape in the gambling sector. In a broad sense, gamification refers to the use of game design elements, mechanics, and principles in non-game contexts to motivate and engage users. Countless companies employ gamification to build customer loyalty.  In gambling, gamification usually takes the form of leaderboards, tournaments, and bonus systems. These are all well-established means of attracting and retaining players, but in 2025, we should see even more tactics gaining popularity.  By implementing deeper layers of gamification, operators can turn gambling into a more immersive experience, fostering stronger connections with their audiences and making players stay for longer.  Gamification classics If it’s not broken, don’t fix it. The same goes for the classic gamification solutions for the gambling industry. Here are the most commonly used forms of gamification in the iGaming industry: Points and rewards systems: Online casinos commonly implement points systems where players earn points for placing bets or winning games. These points can be redeemed for bonuses, free spins, or other rewards.  Leaderboards and tournaments: Often used to foster competition among players. Poker and blackjack apps often feature leaderboards where players compete for high scores or exclusive prizes. Tournaments also create opportunities for players to showcase their skills and win rewards. Daily challenges and missions: Platforms offer daily challenges that encourage players to complete specific tasks in exchange for additional points or prizes.  Loyalty programs: Players are rewarded based on their activity levels. For instance, a player might achieve "Gold" status after reaching a certain number of bets, which grants them access to exclusive bonuses or promotions.  These have all proven to work incredibly well. But adding a twist to these well-known solutions can greatly enhance the overall user experience and retention of an iGaming platform. Here’s how: Elevate personalization By combining the demand for personalization and the rise of AI, gamification can reach an entirely new level.  AI is capable of collecting and analyzing massive amounts of data. By using insights from these vast reserves of information, AI can tailor recommendations to player’s behavior and preferences. This means that difficulty levels, rewards, and game scenarios can be modified on the fly to maintain engagement and excitement. This level of personalization is expected to become a standard practice in the industry, making gaming platforms more dynamic and engaging. Explore the new gamification hub The rise of Telegram casinos has opened new doors for gamification in gambling.  With its fast, mobile-friendly nature and interactive bot integrations, Slotegrator’s Telegram Casino serves as a perfect platform for operators to introduce loyalty programs, in-chat mini-games, and real-time progress tracking.  Players can receive rewards instantly, participate in exclusive gambling challenges, and even compete in invite-only tournaments, creating a community-driven gaming atmosphere. Such mobile-friendly solutions can also help attract and retain younger audiences.   Create a unique bonus system Traditionally, iGaming bonuses mostly come in the forms of free spins or deposit matches. Now, though, brands are redefining their bonus systems and taking them to the next level.  Bonuses are no longer limited to free spins or deposit matches. The gamification of rewards in gambling now extends to real-world incentives, such as exclusive merchandise collaborations, travel opportunities, and access to luxury events.  Some gambling platforms are also partnering with retailers and entertainment venues to offer vouchers for dining, shopping, and experiences. When players make deposits, they can receive vouchers to spend in select stores or entertainment hubs, making the gambling experience even more rewarding. This approach allows operators to build a deeper connection with players and provide tangible benefits beyond the digital world. Take social experiences seriously Gamification in gambling has moved beyond individual achievements, becoming a powerful driver of social interaction and community engagement.  Rewarding user-generated content can ignite players’ desire to engage with the community, making them feel valued and involved. Features like live chats, multiplayer games, and group betting create interactive environments where players connect, collaborate, and compete.  Many casinos use referral programs to encourage players to get friends to sign up for their platform. With tiered rewards, social challenges, and in-game perks for both referrers and new players, these can also be a good contribution to building a community inside your platform.  Gamified social experiences, including team competitions and shared betting pools, reinforce collaboration and collective wins, strengthening the emotional connection to gaming. Additionally, social recognition systems, such as badges and shareable achievements, empower players to showcase their skills and milestones, further boosting community involvement. By transforming gambling into a socially immersive experience, these gamification strategies help operators attract and retain a more diverse and engaged audience. Final though ts The gamification trends of 2025 are all about breaking boundaries. Thanks to Telegram casino integration, AI-driven personalization, and unique bonus systems, operators can stay ahead of the curve and keep giving players new reasons to come back, time and again.  For more insights on gamification and iGaming solutions, get in touch with Slotegrator today. Read related article:   PAGCOR Slashes E-Games Fees By 30 Percent

Industry leaders voice strong support for the reimagined SBC Summit Americas. This event unites the gaming industry across North, Central, and South America, creating a cohesive platform for regional growth. The announcement of the SBC Summit Americas  has garnered widespread support from industry leaders. The reimagined event aims to increase connectivity across North, Central, and South America, forming a single, cohesive platform for the gaming industry throughout the region. Set to take place in Fort Lauderdale on May 13-15, 2025, the summit is poised to offer broader networking opportunities and drive forward collaboration within the industry. Peruvian operator Apuesta Total shared their excitement about the location. "I always enjoy a change of scenery, and Fort Lauderdale is a fantastic choice. Many people like to turn conferences into extended weekends, so I’m certain attendees will appreciate the city’s beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere,” said company CEO Gonzalo Perez.  Relationship marketing hub Optimove's VP of Revenue, Motti Colman, shared his thoughts on the potential of the new-look event. "With 8,000 attendees expected, this event is off to an excellent start. I am also keen on exploring new market insights through market-by-market conference sessions, so I am confident this is a great platform for expanded opportunities." Better Collective, a leading affiliate powerhouse and a frequent presence at SBC events, not only attending but also contributing as exhibitors, sponsors, and speakers, expressed their confidence in SBC's potential with this revamped event. "At Better Collective, we look very much forward to the SBC Summit America 2025 in Fort Lauderdale. With years of proven expertise in event organization, SBC enables unparalleled networking opportunities under one roof, reinforcing our connections and partnerships within the industry," said Marc Frank Pedersen, company CEO for North America. He added: "Having worked with SBC for many years, we trust in SBC's commitment to deliver events that not only meet but exceed our expectations." Joseph Martin, CEO of Kinectify, a company specializing in anti-money laundering and compliance software, who has previously exhibited at SBC Summit North America, backed the decision, expressing confidence in SBC's industry-centric ethos. "SBC always puts on great events. They have deep connections within our industry and prioritize the right elements to optimize our experience. I'm excited about this new show covering both North and South America. Gaming companies operating in multiple markets across the two continents now have a single event focused on the entire Americas region. I look forward to another outstanding SBC event experience in Fort Lauderdale." FanDuel CEO, Amy Howe, commented on the growth that SBC Summit North America had previously achieved under SBC’s leadership. "The SBC North American Summit has become a mark the calendar industry event each spring. The conference seems to grow each year and brings together an impressive array regulators, legislators, operators and technologists that help power the industry’s growth."  The CEO also confirmed that the "company is delighted to participate in the conference each year and looks forward to 2025 in Florida." Marina Bogard, Managing Director for North America at Betsson, also emphasized that the event caters to companies with diverse geographic interests. "SBC’s decision to launch SBC Summit Americas and host the event in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, provides a convenient opportunity for businesses with diverse market strategies to connect with both North American and Latin American leads under one roof."  Bogard underscored the significance of this unified approach, which allows Betsson to efficiently engage with partners across diverse regions. "As you know, Betsson is a global company, and both regions remain highly significant for our expansion strategies. It is great to be able to align our efforts and meet all our partners across the Americas without having to attend multiple conferences," she said. Colman remarked: “SBC clearly has foresight in creating SBC Summit Americas for 2025.” Just like Bogard, he also recognized the event’s appeal to companies serving multiple geos. "At Optimove, we have experienced incredible growth in North and South America that parallels the incredible growth of SBC in each region. This new, reimagined show underscores that iGaming has come of age in the Americas. Plus, it will greatly benefit iGaming operators and service providers with diverse market interests." Perez echoed this sentiment. "We can all agree that the industry juggles numerous commitments, especially concerning conference participation. While attending expos around the world is rewarding, it also presents logistical and financial hurdles for companies. Therefore, I really embrace the idea of combining the strengths of the SBC Summit North America and Latinoamérica events to create a larger, more networking-rich experience," he said. You can register your interest in exhibiting/sponsoring/speaking at the event by visiting the   official website . Read related article:   SBC Summit Americas To Be Held From May 13-15, 2025

Macau casinos reported a record number of suspicious transactions in 2024, coinciding with the region's economic rebound and tourism surge. Macau's casinos are experiencing a rise in suspicious financial activities as the city's economy and tourism rebound, according to a recent report. Data from Portuguese-Macau daily Lusa reveals that Macau casinos reported a record number of suspicious transactions in 2024. These transactions, which may indicate potential money laundering or terrorist financing, totaled 3,837 cases—an 11.8% increase from the previous year. The statistics were released by Macau’s Finance Intelligence Office (Gabinete de Informacao Financiera, GIF). “This increase was mainly due to the economic recovery and the significant rise in visitor arrivals in 2024,” the GIF stated. Experts attribute the uptick in suspicious activity to Macau’s improving economy and the surge in tourism. More visitors and increased financial transactions in casinos create greater opportunities for illicit activities. Additionally, casinos have enhanced their monitoring and detection mechanisms, leading to more flagged transactions. In 2024, Macau’s casinos generated MOP 226.8 billion (P1.6 trillion) in revenue, reflecting a substantial 23.9% increase. The city also welcomed 34.9 million visitors, a 23.8% rise compared to the previous year. Casinos are monitoring activities such as chip exchanges without gameplay, transactions conducted under different identities, and irregular currency exchanges. Authorities in China have previously dismantled underground banking operations in Macau that facilitated illegal financial activities. Casinos account for 73.2% of all suspicious transaction reports, followed by banks and insurance companies at 20.9%. Other businesses, such as pawn shops and jewelry stores, contribute the remaining reports. Under Macau’s regulations, financial institutions must report any single transaction exceeding MOP 500,000 (PHP 3.6 million). Despite the high number of reports, only 142 cases in 2024 led to police investigations—a slight increase from the previous year. Authorities have not disclosed why many reports do not result in further action. While the U.S. government has identified Macau as a potential money-laundering hotspot, local authorities maintain that they adhere to international financial regulations. Macau officials emphasize their commitment to compliance and cooperation with global financial watchdogs to combat illicit activities. Read related article:   ‘Macau Casino Outlook Tied to Chinese Economy’

Philippine authorities are investigating a travel agency's role in document fraud related to POGOs (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators). A travel agency under investigation for allegedly providing fraudulent Philippine government documents to foreign nationals has emerged as a potential key link in the ongoing Senate inquiry into Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGOs), according to Gilberto Cruz, Executive Director of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC). Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, Cruz stated that the agency may be the "missing link" referenced by Senators Sherwin Gatchalian and Risa Hontiveros, referring to a group facilitating the acquisition of passports, Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) birth certificates, and late birth registrations. PAOCC conducted an entrapment operation on Wednesday, February 5th, against JRB Travel and Consultancy Services Inc. in Intramuros, Manila, resulting in the arrest of Rosalie Bermas Bolaños and Jaive Espolong Nobleta. The two are accused of illegally processing Philippine identification cards for foreigners. Cruz explained that authorities seized marriage and birth certificates, as well as a passport bearing a foreign national's photo but with a Filipino name. While the documents were genuine and authenticated by agencies like the PSA, the information contained within them is suspected to be false. "We will check with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to verify the existence of the individual. While the birth certificate and other documents are authentic, having been sent by mail from the PSA with official receipts, the veracity of the information is in question," Cruz said. The suspects also face charges of impersonating PAOCC personnel, following complaints from two individuals. Cruz detailed how, on February 4th, two complainants reported an extortion scheme involving individuals claiming to be PAOCC employees. These individuals allegedly demanded large sums of money from wives and partners of POGO workers in exchange for their release and to prevent deportation. One complainant reportedly paid approximately PHP 900,000, while another paid PHP1.1 million. Cruz clarified that no actual PAOCC personnel were involved in the scheme. Cruz described the operation as targeting a “large-scale syndicate,” suggesting the travel agency has connections within various government agencies, including the Bureau of Immigration, the PSA, and possibly even the Land Transportation Office (LTO). He noted the group's pattern of operating discreetly under scrutiny, resuming activities once attention subsides. “They only lie low when the pressure is on. Once they feel things have calmed down, they strike again. Maybe their key contacts haven't been exposed yet," he said. Cruz emphasized the need for internal investigations within government agencies. "Maybe we should also look into our own people. The reason we pushed hard to catch them is because, for all we know, someone among us might already be involved in these illegal activities,” he stated. He urged other agencies to follow suit, stressing that the illicit activities will persist as long as these contacts remain in place. Read related article:   Are POGOs Reopening? PAGCOR Says It's Fake News

Love is in the air! Celebrate Valentine's Day with Booming Games' new Burning Love slot. This 5x3 game offers a fresh take on a classic with exciting features and hot wins. Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, love is in the air, and Booming Games take full responsibility – thanks to the timely release of smokin’ hot slot Burning Love. The popular games provider has been busy searching for the perfect match for players, and this fiery 5x3 game ticks all the boxes. A fresh and exciting twist on the old favourite Burning Classics, this romantic revival retains all its allure despite its mesmerising makeover. Those features that made you fall in love the first time around remain at the heart of it all — free spins, stacked wilds and scatter payouts — but Booming Games have poured on the charm. Play with fire using the Gamble Feature and hit it off with wins of up to 2,000x your bet. Heart-warming major symbols turn heart-shaped on the reels, offset by a bewitching backdrop that’s sure to get you in the mood for a pretty payout or two. This gorgeous new game awaits you this February – so come and spin for the win of your dreams. As with all of the provider’s titles, Burning Love has been certified for launch in core regulated markets including the UK, Sweden and all Malta jurisdictions. Read related article:   ACN Spotlight: Booming Games Head on Crash Games’ Popularity

SBC Summit Americas launches May 13-15, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale, uniting the North and Latin American gaming markets in one comprehensive event. SBC has announced the launch of SBC Summit Americas , a reimagined show that combines the strengths  of SBC Summit North America and SBC Summit Latinoamérica, creating a single platform for the entire Americas gaming community. The new look event, scheduled for May 13-15, 2025, will bring together the North American and Latin American gaming markets under one roof for a comprehensive experience of education, networking, and exhibition, and eliminate the need to attend two separate regional shows. SBC Summit Americas will take place in spectacular Fort Lauderdale, Florida . Dubbed the 'Venice of America' and renowned for its Blue Wave-certified beaches, the city also offers the accessibility required with direct flights from crucial Latin American, US and European hubs. Rasmus Sojmark , CEO and Founder of SBC said: "This marks a significant moment for all of us at SBC. When the size of your current venues becomes limiting and cannot meet the demands of the industry,  you know it's time for a change."  The Broward County Convention Center  was selected as the venue for the event, boasting 250,000 square feet of space that enables SBC to accommodate over  8,000   attendees  and 300 exhibitors and sponsors . "Now, it’s Fort Lauderdale’s turn to experience what SBC has to offer. We’re launching a major event for the entire Americas region and transforming it into a key networking hub and a must-attend occasion for anyone who doesn't want to be left behind," Sojmark  added. With an emphasis on diverse representation, the event will see participation from over   3,200 operator and 1,000 affiliate representatives . Additionally, it will engage senior management from regulatory bodies, sports clubs, and suppliers in the payments, betting, and casino solutions sectors. The exhibition and conference experience will also receive an extra boost with the inclusion of three specialized summits: SBC Leaders Summit , Affiliate Leaders Summit , and Payment Expert Summit . This aligns with the company's focus on attracting senior decision-makers, who usually make up 40% of attendees at SBC’s events.  The conference component, led by 400 regional experts , will feature dedicated stages exploring the main markets of interest. Discussions will span topics in the sports betting and casino sectors, covering both online and land-based domains. Moreover, the event will provide insights into affiliation, emerging technologies and the regional startup scene. “This also presents a prime opportunity for us to address the concerns of our exhibitors, sponsors, and delegates who struggle to commit to multiple industry events annually. As event organizers, we try to take such feedback on board and act upon it when possible. In this case, it perfectly aligns with our own ambition, which has always been to soar higher and think bigger. When it can be done with greater benefit for our industry friends, it just always feels much better,” Sojmark  added. For more information and to register your interest in the event, visit the official website .  Read related article:   SBC Summit Rio 2025 to Triple in Size with Move to Riocentro

Thailand's proposed entertainment complex bill faces opposition. Palang Pracharath Party alleges "false advertising" on tourism benefits. Thailand’s opposition Palang Pracharath Party has criticized the proposed entertainment complex bill, calling claims that it will boost tourism a “false advertisement.” The party plans to challenge the bill as part of a no-confidence debate against the government in March.  According to The Bangkok Post, opposition leaders argue that legalizing casino gaming would harm Thai society, while the bill itself grants excessive power to the prime minister. Deputy leader Chaimongkol Chairop questioned the government's priorities, stating, “Couldn’t this government find other ways to generate revenue? Why end up allowing the country to be tainted and damaged by this [casino legalization]?” A key concern for the party is the proposal to allocate up to 10% of entertainment complex space for casinos and place them in major tourist hubs instead of rural areas. The opposition warns that, rather than making tourism more sustainable, these developments would fuel gambling addiction and crime, undermining Thailand’s reputation. In January 2025, Thailand's cabinet approved a draft bill to legalize casinos within large-scale entertainment complexes, aiming to boost tourism, create jobs, and attract investment. The proposed legislation, pending parliamentary approval, would permit gambling in designated areas, aligning Thailand with neighboring countries like Singapore and Cambodia that have thriving casino industries.  Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra supports the initiative, emphasizing its potential economic benefits. However, public opinion remains divided; a recent survey indicated that 59% of Thais oppose the establishment of entertainment complexes with casinos. The government plans to address these concerns as the bill progresses through the legislative process.  Read related article:   UN Expert Worried About Money Laundering in Thai Casinos

Can either team break their slump? The Washington Wizards, holding the NBA's worst record, face the Brooklyn Nets in a crucial matchup. Don't miss this Thursday's game! By: Sanjay Belani Running Score: 6-3 Two of the NBA’s worst teams face off on Thursday as the league-worst Washington Wizards travel to Barclays Center to take on the Brooklyn Nets. Brooklyn is coming off a thrilling comeback win against one of the league’s hottest teams, the Houston Rockets. Trailing 97-93 with just nine seconds left, the Nets hit a clutch three, forced a steal, and sealed the victory with a cold-blooded game-winner from D’Angelo Russell. Meanwhile, the Wizards are also riding some momentum after a 124-114 win over the Charlotte Hornets on February 4, marking just their second two-game winning streak of the season. Now, they’re aiming for their longest win streak of the year. With Kyle Kuzma finding his rhythm and the Wizards finally maximizing Jonas Valanciunas —who has been far more efficient than Alex Sarr— I love Washington’s chances in this matchup. After managing just one win in all of January, the Wizards seem eager to put together a strong stretch. Players like Kuzma and Valančiūnas also have added motivation, as strong performances could boost their trade value ahead of the deadline. I like the Wizards to win this game outright, but I’ll take the handicap as I expect a close contest between these two. Current Odds: Spread: Brooklyn Nets -2.0 | Washington Wizards +2.0 Moneyline: Brooklyn Nets 1.78 | Washington Wizards 2.02 Over/Under: Over 217.0 | Under 217.0 Odds from Arena Plus. Hot Trend: Brooklyn is 1-5 in their last 6 games against a south east division. Sanjay’s Pick: Washington Wizards +2.0 Read related article:   Celtics vs. Cavs: Picks & Odds, Feb. 5, 2025

A POGO-linked love scam hub using AI has been busted in Manila.  Over 100 individuals arrested in the latest crackdown on online fraud operations. National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) agents raided a suspected love scam hub in a Makati City condominium on Tuesday, uncovering the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in their deceptive operations. A video report by   local media ABS-CBN News  uncovered the arrest. It was revealed in the report that these were “remnants” of the now-illegal offshore gaming trade.  "These are the remnants of POGO operations. The principals have already left and these people were left to continue in fraudulent schemes," said NBI NCR Regional Director Ferdinand Lavin. "They still have the systems in place. They continue to rent the facilities, they have the equipment. Only the principals left, the personnel are still here." NBI Director Jaime Santiago expressed concern over the misuse of AI for such illicit activities. According to one of the arrested Filipino women, they employed female models whose images were replicated using AI image generators. The suspect admitted to the illegal activity but claimed they only communicated with foreigners. "I'm the one who talks to the clients through video call. For different clients, we use different models. Usually, we just exchange greetings and then proceed to chat," she said. Operatives found cellphones and computers containing scripts used in the fraudulent scheme. Over 100 Filipinos and a Chinese national, identified as the employees' supervisor, were arrested in the operation. "Once they gain the trust of the people, they will ask them to open a crypto account. That's how they get the people's money," Santiago explained. He warned the public, especially with Valentine's Day approaching, to be cautious of dating apps and potential scams. The suspects will face charges for violating the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA) and the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. The NBI is also considering filing identity theft charges due to the use of other people's identities. The owner of the condominium unit is also under investigation for allowing the scam hub to operate within their property. Read related article:   How A POGO-Linked Love Scam Preyed on 5,000 Australians

Senate panel urges criminal charges against officials linked to POGOs, while Senator Villanueva reiterates his call for a total POGO ban, citing economic losses and corruption. The Senate Committee on Women has called for the filing of criminal charges against key individuals linked to illicit activities involving Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs). Among those named are Tony Yang, Sual Mayor Lisandro Calugay, and several public officials accused of protecting dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Guo.  Senator Risa Hontiveros, chair of the committee, revealed these findings during a plenary session on Tuesday, as she presented Committee Report No. 514, which outlined “deceptive strategies” for POGOs to establish themselves in the Philippines.  Hontiveros, in her speech, outlined the following recommendations: Criminal Prosecution of Public Officials – Authorities should pursue cases under Republic Act No. 3019 and other relevant laws against government officials implicated in illegal POGO activities and in shielding Alice Guo. This includes Sual Mayor Lisandro Calugay and members of his staff. Legal Action Against Tony Yang – Investigators should file criminal cases against Tony Yang for acquiring and using a fraudulent Filipino identity. Additionally, preliminary intelligence should be deepened into the activities of Michael Yang, Tony Yang, and Hongjiang Yang, especially concerning their potential involvement with a foreign state's intelligence operations. Economic Sabotage Charges  – Those apprehended in Pogo-related raids post-July 2024, or following the enactment of Republic Act No. 12010, should face charges under the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act. International Cooperation – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) should continue diplomatic efforts with Thai authorities to investigate She Zhijiang and uncover any links between Guo Hua Ping and espionage or foreign interference. Clarification of Executive Order No. 74 – The Executive Branch should clarify provisions of the order, particularly the section excluding online games of chance conducted in licensed casinos, integrated resorts, and Pagcor-operated establishments. Immigration Reforms – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) must report to the Senate on reforms implemented to prevent similar escapes like that of Guo Hua Ping. The report should also address the alleged involvement of BI personnel in trafficking Pogo workers into the country and smuggling Filipinos abroad for fraudulent employment. Visa Issuance Overhaul  – Authorities should streamline the visa application process and establish a centralized database akin to the United States Department of Homeland Security. This system would consolidate all visa-related information, enabling authorities to assess an individual’s travel history and security risks comprehensively. Total POGO Ban  – The Senate should urgently pass legislation that completely prohibits offshore gaming operations and all associated service providers. The proposed law should include severe penalties for public officials found aiding and abetting POGO activities. As it stands, the bill on POGOs has been approved on its second reading in the lower chamber.   President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in his July state address declared a ban on POGOs, formalizing it through an executive order (EO) in November. While Senators have welcomed the decision, they argued that this wasn’t enough, calling to address the ambiguities by the  EO. Generally, an EO can be easily rescinded by any sitting president, whereas a law passed by Congress and the Senate requires hearings and a vote, making it more difficult to overturn. According to the 1987 Philippine Constitution: “All courts existing at the time of the ratification of this Constitution shall continue to exercise their jurisdiction, until otherwise provided by law. The provisions of the existing Rules of Court, judiciary acts, and procedural laws not inconsistent with this Constitution shall remain operative unless amended or repealed by the Supreme Court or the Congress. ”  Villanueva Calls for Permanent POGO Ban Meanwhile, Senator Joel Villanueva reiterated his call for a total ban on POGOs, citing their severe economic and social costs. He highlighted that according to the Department of Finance (DOF), the net loss from their continued operations amounts to P99.52 billion annually. Speaking at a Senate session on Tuesday, Villanueva voiced his support for holding individuals like Guo Hua Ping accountable and fully eliminating POGO operations. He has been advocating for this ban since 2016 when his office exposed corruption within the Bureau of Immigration (BI), leading to the arrest of BI Commissioners Al Argosino and Michael Robles for accepting bribes to release detained Chinese nationals. Villanueva commended the committee’s efforts but urged additional measures to strengthen regulations and prevent future abuses. He emphasized that POGOs have corrupted institutions and caused more harm than good, arguing that their perceived economic benefits do not outweigh their negative impact on society. Read related article:   ‘Underground POGOs Threat To Anti-Money Laundering Efforts’

The Sacramento Kings, fresh off a blockbuster trade that sent De'Aaron Fox to Spurs for Zach LaVine, face the red-hot Minnesota Timberwolves.  By: Sanjay Belani The Sacramento Kings head to Minnesota for a Western Conference showdown against the Timberwolves, looking to bounce back from a rough stretch. Sacramento was recently involved in a three-team trade, sending away their best player, De’Aaron Fox, in exchange for Zach LaVine. However, LaVine is unlikely to make his debut in this matchup, leaving the Kings slightly shorthanded. That said, the team has actually performed better without Fox in recent games, as Malik Monk and DeMar DeRozan have taken on more ball-handling duties. Fox, knowing he was on the trading block, appeared to lose focus before the deal was finalized. Despite dropping four of their last five games, the Kings enter this matchup as only slight underdogs. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves have been red-hot, winning five straight—including victories over top-tier teams like Dallas, Denver, and Phoenix—before an unexpected loss to Washington. Given the betting line, I believe the Kings are the right play here. With the trade deadline uncertainty behind them and the roster set for the rest of the season, Sacramento should be motivated to start fresh. I’m taking the Kings with the points in this one. Current Odds: Spread: Sacramento Kings +4.5 | Minnesota Timberwolves -4.5 Moneyline: Minnesota Timberwolves 1.50 | Sacramento Kings 2.56 Over/Under: Over 221.5 | Under 221.5 Odds from Arena Plus. Hot Trends: Sacramento is 4-1 against the spread (ATS) in their last 5 road games at Minnesota. Minnesota is 1-10 ATS in their last 11 games. Sanjay’s Pick: Sacramento Kings +4.5 Read related article:   Pelicans vs. Raptors Prediction, Picks & Odds - January 28, 2025