BruntWork supports BPOs as PAGCOR calls to spare outsourcing firms from POGO ban

Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Chairman Alejandro Tengco requested the protection of business process outsourcing (BPO) firms serving gambling companies in July 2024. His request aims to lessen the economic impact of the upcoming Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) ban. BruntWork, a top outsourcing agency, offers valuable insights into BPO’s importance and the potential effects of the ban.

Economic Impact of the POGO Ban

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the closure of all POGOs toward the end of 2024 due to extensive criminal activities linked to it, such as human trafficking, kidnapping, money laundering, and other illicit operations. PAGCOR estimates that 40,000 Filipino workers will lose their jobs. Of these, 31,000 work directly for POGOs and 10,000 in specialized BPOs serving international gaming firms. The government will lose about P20 billion in revenue and income from work permits and immigration fees.

Tengco proposed exempting specialized BPOs from the ban to save jobs and maintain economic stability. He noted these BPOs provide essential support services like customer service and technical assistance without direct involvement in gambling.

Business groups have mixed feelings about the POGO ban. Some support the government’s efforts to stop illegal activities linked to POGOs, while others worry about the economic fallout. Some suggest the government should help retrain workers who lose their jobs and find new uses for POGO-affected assets.

BPOs in the Philippine Economy

Business process outsourcing companies contribute heavily to the Philippine gross domestic product (GDP) and create many jobs. BruntWork, a global outsourcing company, notes that outsourcing has changed urban areas and improved technical skills and education across the country. Many companies switched to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic and continued to do well.

Winston Ong, CEO of BruntWork, says BPOs help maintain economic stability during the POGO ban. “Outsourcing ensures business continuity and operational efficiency,” Ong states. “BPOs support various industries and contribute greatly to the economy.”

BruntWork’s diverse portfolio, spanning real estate to healthcare, showcases the adaptability that has become the hallmark of successful BPOs. It also offers data entry outsourcing, customer support outsourcing, telemarketing, finance and accounting, digital marketing, and administrative help. This range of services lets BruntWork meet the needs of different sectors and support different types of businesses affected by the POGO ban.

BruntWork’s Take on Outsourcing Amid the POGO Ban

BruntWork sees the POGO ban as a challenge and an opportunity for BPOs to prove their worth. “The adaptability of BPOs is one of their greatest strengths,” Ong says. “Using advanced tools and technologies can help BPOs continue to provide high-quality services and support to their clients, even when rules change.”

Outsourcing offers several perks for businesses. It saves money, allows for easy scaling, and often improves accuracy. BruntWork uses advanced tools to ensure correct and consistent data. As POGOs shut down, more companies might hire virtual assistants for these specialized services.

BruntWork focuses on industries where it has deep expertise. This approach has helped the firm retain loyal clients and grow its business, even when the economy is shaky. Ong explains: “Our strong recruitment and training processes allow us to scale teams quickly and efficiently. We’re committed to helping businesses survive tough times by providing reliable and cost-effective outsourcing solutions.”

Ong also emphasizes the growing importance of outsourcing and concludes: “Outsourcing is the backbone of many industries, and its importance will only grow as businesses try to handle new rules and money challenges.” He believes BruntWork can help fill the gap left by POGOs by providing jobs for skilled workers and supporting businesses that need to adjust their operations.