At a media forum held in Quezon City, PAOCC Deputy Minister Gilbert Cruz admitted that despite President Marcos's order to close all POGO facilities nationwide by December 31, 2023, a large number of foreign POGO workers still face deportation.
"The number is still large—about 11,000 people are still stranded, and we have deported 3,000," Cruz said.
He emphasized that the remaining POGO workers will be charged for violating relevant laws, adding that the dismissed Mayor of Banban City, Alice Guo, some local government leaders, and some officials have been prosecuted for alleged POGO operations.
Cruz explained that before deporting foreign workers, coordination with the embassy of the worker's home country is necessary, as well as obtaining permission from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
Previously, the Philippine government did not bear the cost of airfare for deportations. However, PAOCC revealed that as the Philippines intensifies its crackdown on illegal immigration and POGO operations, the relevant countries are now willing to pay for the repatriation costs of their citizens.
"In fact, this year, several countries have proactively contacted the Philippines, hoping to cooperate on how to combat online gambling companies, as this issue has had a serious impact on them," Cruz stated, noting that Taiwan, China, Indonesia, and Malaysia are among the countries consulting with the Philippines.
However, he admitted that even though the government has closed the main POGO centers, some small-scale illegal operations continue, often "hiding in plain sight."
Cruz pointed out that areas like the resorts, Makati City, the Mall of Asia (MOA) in Pasay City, and Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City have become target areas for small-scale POGO operations.
"Therefore, PAOCC is still closely monitoring the situation. Although we have made arrests in remote areas, similar illegal activities also occur in densely populated urban areas," Cruz added.
