The Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) has temporarily suspended the Bureau of Immigration (BI) regulation that set a 60-day deadline for the departure of foreigners working for Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
This decision is in line with the government's plan to phase out the controversial gaming industry by the end of this year.
Philippine Justice Minister Jesus Crispin Remulla announced the suspension of the BI's order, which was issued shortly after President Marcos announced the prohibition of POGO operations. On July 22, President Marcos highlighted the nefarious activities of POGOs, including financial fraud, money laundering, and other serious crimes, in his third State of the Nation Address (SONA).
Remulla emphasized that the BI cannot set a unilateral deadline without considering the government's overall strategy. BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco stated that the BI would revoke the visas of foreign offshore gaming company employees and stop processing new applications. Tansingco noted that approximately 20,000 foreign employees in the gaming industry are expected to cease working in the coming months.
The DOJ's move to delay the deadline reflects the need for smooth management of the transition. Remulla pointed out that it is preferable for employees of foreign offshore gaming companies to leave voluntarily, and the DOJ seeks to clarify the rules with the BI to align with the December 31 deadline. He stressed that after the closure of offshore gaming companies, it is crucial to return the funds held by sales agents to prevent unjust enrichment.
The BI has also requested a list of foreigners working for Philippine offshore gaming companies from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), whose licenses have been suspended or not renewed. This list will help track individuals who may illegally remain in the country.
Senators Sherwin Gatchalian and Risa Hontiveros have been outspoken critics of online gaming companies. Gatchalian emphasized that these companies contribute minimally to national revenue and employ fewer Filipinos compared to foreign workers. Hontiveros praised the newly enacted Anti-Financial Account Fraud Act (AFASA), which allows the government to seize assets of illegal online gaming companies and use them to support victims.
The Philippine Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) reported that since May 4, 2023, 1,698 foreigners working for illegal POGO companies have been deported. PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio confirmed these numbers and noted that blacklisted individuals will not be able to return to the Philippines. However, about 30,000 foreigners working for legal POGO companies but facing deportation may still have the possibility to return if they are not facing criminal charges.
Casio stated that with the ongoing support of various agencies and local government units, the government is confident in its efforts to deport a large number of overseas gaming operator employees. The government will continue to ensure an orderly departure of all foreign offshore gaming operator employees to fulfill the President's directive to stop the operations of overseas gaming operators by the end of the year.
