The Bureau of Immigration (BI) of the Philippines stated that the fully effective ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) has had a positive impact on the country's tourism industry, helping to enhance the Philippines' international image as a safe travel destination.
BI spokesperson Dana Krizia Sandoval mentioned in a briefing that the departure of POGO employees has made the Philippines feel safer for tourists and foreigners.
She emphasized that the government's efforts in security and public order have effectively attracted foreign tourists, showing strong performance in the tourism sector.
By December, the number of international tourists in the Philippines reached 5.65 million, achieving 73.4% of the target for 2024.
BI Director Joel Anthony Viado added that, according to PAGCOR data, about 33,000 foreign IGL workers (formerly POGO) were registered before the ban,
with about 23,000 to 24,000 having voluntarily departed, and some workers downgrading their work visas to tourist visas.
About 8,000 are still remaining, of which 1,000 have not completed the visa change process. Those who fail to leave by December 31 will be blacklisted.
Philippine President Marcos ordered the implementation of the POGO ban in his State of the Nation Address, aimed at addressing crimes related to offshore gaming such as human trafficking, money laundering, and financial fraud.
The ban is supported by law enforcement agencies and civil organizations, believing it helps improve national security and international image.
Although the economic impact of the ban is a subject of discussion, the growth in tourism shows benefits, with the hotel and tourism industry reporting improved performance,
highlighting the government's determination to prioritize tourism as a key economic sector. The Bureau of Immigration and related departments will continue to enforce the ban, ensuring compliance of former POGO employees and maintaining national security and image.
