NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Over 11,000 Foreign Nationals Tied To POGO Operations Set For Deportation By Bureau Of Immigration
PAOCC FILE PHOTO
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is gearing up to deport over 11,000 foreign nationals involved in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) operations after a strict deadline passed.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado announced that, out of the 33,863 POGO employees under the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), a significant portion—24,779—failed to downgrade their visas. Another 22,609 foreign nationals left the country before the December 31 deadline. But for those who missed the deadline or didn’t comply, deportation is now on the table.
“We are focusing on those who either didn’t downgrade their visas or didn’t leave the country,” Viado said. “Companies that still have POGO workers in the country are required to surrender them. If they try to hide them, they could be facing charges for harboring illegal aliens.”
The crackdown is part of a broader move to shut down POGO operations in the Philippines. Viado made it clear that foreign nationals who don’t comply with the government’s order to leave will face an intensified manhunt.
“I’ve directed our intelligence division to search for those who are still at large,” he added. “They are considered illegal aliens now, and we’re taking this seriously. The President’s order is clear: No more POGO in the Philippines. Anyone who disobeys will be arrested, deported, and blacklisted—no exceptions.”
As the manhunt intensifies, it’s clear that the government is determined to carry out this crackdown and clear the country of illegal POGO operations.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado announced that, out of the 33,863 POGO employees under the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), a significant portion—24,779—failed to downgrade their visas. Another 22,609 foreign nationals left the country before the December 31 deadline. But for those who missed the deadline or didn’t comply, deportation is now on the table.
“We are focusing on those who either didn’t downgrade their visas or didn’t leave the country,” Viado said. “Companies that still have POGO workers in the country are required to surrender them. If they try to hide them, they could be facing charges for harboring illegal aliens.”
The crackdown is part of a broader move to shut down POGO operations in the Philippines. Viado made it clear that foreign nationals who don’t comply with the government’s order to leave will face an intensified manhunt.
“I’ve directed our intelligence division to search for those who are still at large,” he added. “They are considered illegal aliens now, and we’re taking this seriously. The President’s order is clear: No more POGO in the Philippines. Anyone who disobeys will be arrested, deported, and blacklisted—no exceptions.”
As the manhunt intensifies, it’s clear that the government is determined to carry out this crackdown and clear the country of illegal POGO operations.
Jan 3, 2025
We are dedicated storytellers with a passion for bringing your brand to life. Our services range from news and media features to brand promotion and collaborations.
Interested? Visit our
Contact Us page for more information. To learn more about what we offer, check out our latest article on services and opportunities.
