12k POGO workers downgrade visas by deadline

Only 12,000 out of over 30,000 foreign POGO workers have voluntarily downgraded their visas by the October 15 deadline, according to the Bureau of Immigration (BI).

Those who voluntarily downgraded their visas are given a 59-day grace period to wind down their affairs in the Philippines.

These workers may return to the Philippines if they have legitimate reasons, such as having families already in the country or intending to apply for other sectors legitimately.

Foreigners who failed to downgrade their visas automatically receive an Order to Leave, which is permanently recorded in their passports and may hinder future returns.

The BI stated that foreign nationals who remain in the country after December 31 will be considered illegal, subject to arrest, deportation, and blacklisting.