Practical tips, recommended to bookmark, latest policy summary from the Philippine Bureau of Immigration

After years of experience, here's how to safely exit, renew visas, or legally reside, especially in cases related to POGO/IGL. Please check carefully.

1. Normal tourist visa (no POGO record)

Applicable to new entrants or those whose downgrade has not been two years: can normally renew or clear customs for exit.

No POGO record but has been two years: can also exit, but need to quickly handle NBI + OTL + MR + ECC.

If there is a visa overstay, penalties must be paid before exiting.

2. Tourist visa customers with POGO/IGL history

Exit by December 31, 2024, and successfully re-enter the Philippines, as long as the system shows not listed in ALO, BLO, WLO blacklist, from February 5, 2025, can normally renew the tourist visa.

3. Summary:

Having a POGO record ≠ unable to enter or renew.

As long as you are not on the ALO, BLO, WLO list, you can still enter the Philippines, extend, and reside legally.

4. If you are currently in the Philippines and have a POGO history, but not on the blacklist:

You can refer to last year's practice: MR + OTL for exit, go through the "voluntary departure" process, not considered as deportation.

5. If you are already on the ALO / BLO / WLO blacklist:

Must exit through the "voluntary deportation" channel.

6. If it is an illegal stay or arrested after a raid on a visa on arrival:

Need to go through the "fast deportation" channel, and the list will note an additional list, making re-entry more difficult in the future.

Deported individuals can choose to go to a third country, not just return to their home country.

7. Having a POGO record but not exiting as required:

Will not be able to handle 13A, change cards, or convert to a long-term visa type, will be restricted in the system.

Conclusion:

The key is not whether you have done POGO, but whether you are on the list now.

Do not assume, it is advised to check the system status early, go through customs clearance, and supplement materials as needed to avoid problems during temporary exit.