The Bureau of Immigration (BI) of the Philippines announced on June 8 that during the first week of June, a total of 115 foreign nationals who were illegally residing or working were apprehended and deported, most of whom were associated with the now-banned offshore gaming platforms (commonly known as POGO).
Immigration Commissioner Joel Antonio Viado revealed that the series of deportation actions took place on June 3, 4, and 6. On June 3, a total of 44 Vietnamese nationals were deported; the following day, 12 Korean citizens and 26 Vietnamese were expelled; and on June 6, one Madagascan citizen along with 25 Vietnamese were deported.
Viado stated that most of these foreign nationals had previously worked for illegal offshore gaming operators and were detained due to lack of legal residency and work documents. These platforms not only violated immigration and labor regulations but were also involved in transnational crimes such as telecommunications fraud and money laundering, hence they were shut down by the government.
"The Philippines has a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of illegal activity," Viado emphasized, "We do not welcome any foreign nationals who jeopardize social security through fraudulent means."
He also noted that all deported individuals have been placed on the immigration blacklist, permanently banned from re-entering the country. He urged all foreigners to comply with Philippine laws and to reside and work legally to avoid legal repercussions.
In recent years, the Philippine government has continuously strengthened its efforts to crack down on illegal foreign workers and gambling-related crimes. The Immigration Bureau stated that similar law enforcement actions will continue to be carried out to ensure national security and social order.
