The Bureau of Immigration (BI) stated on Tuesday (October 15) that the work visas of approximately 12,000 foreign workers employed by Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) have been downgraded.
Immigration spokesperson Dana Sandoval revealed on Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon: "As of our last report, 12,000 people have applied for voluntary downgrading."
The spokesperson explained that those who have their work visa status downgraded will receive a temporary visitor visa and must leave the Philippines within 59 days.
Sandoval warned foreign POGO workers against downgrading their work visa status.
"They will be deported and blacklisted," she said.
The Bureau of Immigration required these foreign workers to downgrade their visa status by October 15.
Sandoval mentioned that a final tally on how many were able to downgrade their work visas would be made on Wednesday (October 16).
"We hope the number of volunteers for downgrading will increase," she added.
The spokesperson further noted: "According to our records, it seems that many have already left the country and have permanently left the country."
