Philippines deports nearly 4,000 foreign workers linked to POGOs

The Philippines has deported nearly 4,000 foreign workers linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and dismantled several major hubs as part of the government's intensified campaign against illegal gambling.

Coordinated raids by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Philippine National Police (PNP), and Department of Justice (DOJ) have led to the closure of large POGO compounds, including those linked to controversial figure Alice Guo in Pampanga and Cebu.

Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz, PAOCC executive director, stated that 4,000 individuals have been deported while another 500 remain in custody for alleged criminal activities such as human trafficking, scamming, and illegal detention within these facilities.

In a landmark case involving a POGO hub in Clark, Pampanga, the government won in court and was awarded assets worth Php6 billion and seized cash amounting to Php185 million.

Despite the closure of major hubs, Cruz warned that 'guerrilla-style' POGO operations have sprung up in condominiums, private subdivisions, and remote resorts, operating under the radar of authorities.