In 2024, as various countries scrutinize, policy changes or industry shifts, many gambling employees and bosses
have moved from the Philippines to Thailand, Dubai, Cambodia, and other countries, and some even hope that one day they can return to the Philippines to continue their unfinished "dream" gambling business. However, this idea of returning now seems to be just an unattainable dream.
Changes in the Philippines' gambling policy: Completely closing the door to return
In recent years, the Philippines has intensified its crackdown on the gambling industry, especially against illegal gambling. Tighter policies have forced a large number of gambling practitioners to leave the Philippines and move to third countries.
Even so, many still harbor the hope of returning to the Philippines through tourist visas and other means. However, such attempts have been blocked by the strict control of the Philippine government.
Reports indicate that the route to obtain a Philippine tourist visa from third countries has been almost completely blocked. Whether they are gambling practitioners or bosses who have been involved in related businesses in the Philippines, they cannot easily obtain entry permits.
Even if a few try to return through illegal channels, they face the risk of being deported, fined, or even legally pursued.
Staying in third countries: A reluctant choice. Currently, most gambling people who have moved from the Philippines choose to temporarily stay in Thailand, Dubai, or Cambodia. Although these countries provide some space for the gambling industry, they are not ideal "bases."
Especially in Thailand, the government has recently increased the identity verification of foreigners, and undocumented individuals face the risk of being expelled. For these gambling people, drifting in third countries may have become a reluctant reality.
The cost of returning home: Once stepping on Chinese soil, one may lose the freedom to leave the country
For many gambling people, returning to China is not a viable option. Once back in China, they may face strict police scrutiny and punitive measures restricting exit from the country. This means that former gambling practitioners or bosses will completely lose the opportunity to travel abroad.
This situation makes many gambling people abroad in a dilemma, unable to return to the Philippines to continue their careers, nor dare to return to China to face an unknown future.
Let go of obsession, and replan life. For those who still "yearn to return," it is time to let go of delusions and face reality. The possibility of returning to the Philippines to continue the gambling business is almost zero, and taking risks to return to China will only put oneself in a more disadvantageous situation.
Perhaps, this is an opportunity to replan life. Instead of clinging to an unattainable dream, it is better to start looking for a legal and stable career path, to strive for more possibilities for the future.
Regardless, the era of changes and policy crackdowns in the gambling industry is irreversible. The past glory has become history, it is time to accept reality, learn to survive and develop in a new environment. Drifting in a foreign land may be difficult, but with hope, new opportunities and possibilities may arise.
