The Bureau of Immigration (BI) in the Philippines has expedited the departure procedures for foreign employees working for Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO). Over 3000 POGO employees have left the country following visa downgrades.
Acting Director of the Immigration Bureau, Joel Anthony Viado, stated in a press release that the bureau has formed teams to personally conduct visa downgrades on-site at POGO and Internet Gaming License (IGL) holding companies.
"During the meeting, members unanimously agreed to expedite the visa downgrades," Viado said. These accelerated visa downgrades were implemented following an interdepartmental meeting that included the Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), and other key government agencies.
Visa Downgrade and Departure Deadlines
According to the Immigration Bureau's regulations, foreign employees hired by POGO must voluntarily downgrade their visas by October 15, 2024. Failure to leave within 59 days will result in deportation. As of September 24, the Immigration Bureau had downgraded 5955 visas, with 55% of the employees—approximately 3275 individuals—having already left the Philippines.
The Philippine government has maintained a tough stance on illegal POGO activities, especially following reports of kidnappings, human trafficking, and torture in illegal operations in areas like Banban, Tarlac, and Porac.
POGO Ban Stemming from Illegal Activities
In the State of the Nation Address (SONA) in July 2024, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called for a complete ban on POGO to address the widespread illegal activities associated with online gaming centers. The government plans to eliminate all POGO operations by the end of the year, prioritizing the safety and welfare of both foreign and local citizens.
Crackdown on Fugitive Foreigners
In related developments, the Immigration Bureau also reported the recent arrest of two South Korean fugitives in Manila attempting to extend their tourist visas. The fugitives, 33-year-old Lee Wonwoong and 60-year-old Huh Hwan, were intercepted by immigration officials during routine checks. Lee Wonwoong is accused of operating an illegal gambling establishment in South Korea, while Huh Hwan faces multiple fraud charges. Both are detained at the immigration facility in Taguig, awaiting deportation.
