Things are starting to look pretty dire for the Philippine Offshore Gambling Operators (POGOs). New information revealed by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) reveals just how much the industry has shrunk, and suggests the trend won’t change unless major developments occur.

Of the previously operating 63 licensed POGOs, the BIR notes that only 15 are currently operating. Workforces have also been cut by as much as 70% to comply with Covid-19 protocols.

The primary reason so few POGOs are back to operations are due to low revenues, but Covid-19 precautions played a major role too. The bureau noted that after many Chinese workers visited their homeland for the Chinese New Year, many could not return due to restricted travel.

But other factors are definitely in play. Taxes have been raised on the industry, decreasing its total profitability even if they do resume operations. A POGO lawyer told the Manila Bulletin the new tax rates are “unreasonable.”