MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced Tuesday that it will receive P50 million from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) to support the deportation of illegal foreign workers employed by Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
A memorandum of agreement has been signed between the two agencies, aiming to expedite the deportation of foreigners found working without proper documentation in the gaming sector.
According to the BI, the funds will cover operational expenses associated with deportation efforts. The agency emphasized that the financial support is expected to streamline the process and improve coordination with law enforcement agencies.
“This partnership strengthens our capacity to act swiftly against illegal foreign workers, particularly in the POGO industry,” the BI said in a statement.
A task force has been formed to oversee the deportation activities, and the BI has scheduled operations to begin once the funds are released. The agency also plans to enhance cooperation with foreign embassies to ensure the orderly removal of undocumented individuals.
Pagcor stated that its support aligns with efforts to enforce legal employment practices and clean up the offshore gaming industry.
Both agencies committed to regular updates on the deportation drive, which forms part of the government’s broader strategy to regulate POGOs and uphold labor and immigration laws.
The BI reiterated its commitment to protecting the country’s labor market and ensuring that all foreign workers in the Philippines comply with existing employment regulations.
