Foreign POGO, IGL workers to depart PH in 60 days

Foreign nationals employed by Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs) must depart the Philippines within 60 days starting July 24.

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) will deny all pending and new visa applications for POGO and IGL workers, and those who violate the departure order will face deportation and increased arrests.

The BI has already deported over 2,300 foreign nationals employed by these companies, and estimates there are around 20,000 foreign workers in POGOs and IGLs, with 70% being Chinese nationals.

Senators Joel Villanueva and Risa Hontiveros support the directive, with Villanueva emphasizing the need for coordination between the BI and PAGCOR, and Hontiveros urging authorities to also target foreigners working for illegal POGOs.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced the ban on POGOs on July 22, an industry marred by controversies and illegal activities.

Foreign POGO and IGL workers will not be refunded the PHP32,460 fee for their working visas, which covers the visa and alien certificate of registration (ACR) I-Card fees.