PH Sets Sights on Deporting Over 11,000 Illegal POGO Workers
NO LET-UP. Some foreign POGO workers undergo immigration processing before leaving the country in this undated photo. The BI said Friday (Jan. 3, 2025) that it would mount an intensified manhunt against more than 11,000 POGO workers who are still in the Philippines and are now considered illegal aliens. (Photo courtesy of BI)
The Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) is cracking down on foreign workers involved in Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO) with an intensified manhunt targeting over 11,000 individuals who remain in the country illegally.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado stated that these individuals, who failed to comply with the December 31, 2024 deadline to downgrade their visas or leave the Philippines, are considered illegal aliens.
“Expect an intensified manhunt against these illegal aliens. The order of the President is clear. No more POGO in the Philippines,” Viado emphasized.
According to BI data, out of 33,863 POGO employees registered under the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp., 24,779 downgraded their visas. While 22,609 individuals left the country before the deadline, over 11,000 remain.
Viado warned those who continue to disregard the order, stating that they will be arrested, deported, and blacklisted.
Consequences for Unlawful POGO Workers
The BI’s stance is clear: Foreign nationals involved in POGO operations who fail to comply with the regulations face severe consequences. Deportation, blacklisting, and potential legal action are on the table for those who remain in the country illegally.
What Happens Next?
The Philippines is committed to curbing the activities of POGO and enforcing immigration regulations. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the BI continues its manhunt and enforces the law.
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