The Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines announced that about 20,000 former POGO workers are expected to leave the country soon due to the imminent December 31 deadline for the cessation of POGO operations, a significant move highlighted by Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado.
The decision to halt POGO operations in the Philippines resulted from various factors, including issues related to criminal activities and regulatory challenges. The government’s directive mandates that all POGO-related activities cease by the end of the year, leading to the departure of foreign workers once employed by these gaming operations.
The BI has emphasized that the affected foreign nationals should take immediate action to comply with the deadline. Failure to leave the country by the specified date may result in being blacklisted, preventing future entry into the Philippines. The bureau is closely coordinating with other government agencies to ensure a smooth and orderly departure process for the POGO workers.
In recent years, the POGO industry has faced scrutiny and criticism due to allegations of illegal activities, including human trafficking, tax evasion, and other forms of financial misconduct. These controversies have prompted the Philippine government to reassess its stance on the industry and take steps to address the associated challenges.
As part of the government’s efforts to manage the POGO exit, the BI has facilitated the process for foreign nationals to downgrade their work visas to temporary visitor visas. This transition allows them to legally remain in the country until their departure. Immigration officials are working to streamline the necessary procedures and provide assistance to those affected.
Furthermore, the BI has been actively monitoring the compliance of POGO workers with the departure mandate. Regular inspections and checks are being conducted to ensure that foreign nationals adhere to the government’s directive. Authorities have also engaged with POGO operators to facilitate the orderly exit of their employees.
The impending departure of POGO workers is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy, particularly in sectors where these foreign nationals were employed. The gaming industry has played a prominent role in providing employment opportunities and driving economic activity. However, the government’s focus on regulating and addressing concerns related to the industry takes precedence.