The Department of Justice (DOJ) in the Philippines has put on hold the Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) 60 day deadline for foreign nationals working in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) to leave the country.
The decision aims to synchronize the government’s plan to phase out the controversial gaming industry by the end of the year.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla announced the suspension of the BI’s order, which came shortly after President Marcos declared a ban on POGO operations. In his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 22nd, President Marcos highlighted the nefarious activities of POGOs, including financial scams, money laundering, and other serious crimes.
Remulla emphasized that the BI cannot unilaterally impose the deadline without considering the broader government strategy. Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco stated that the BI would revoke visas for foreign POGO workers and halt the processing of new applications. Tansingco noted that approximately 20,000 foreign workers in the gaming industry are expected to wind down their activities in the coming months.
The DOJ’s move to delay the deadline reflects the need to manage the transition smoothly. Remulla pointed out that foreign POGO workers should ideally leave voluntarily, and the DOJ seeks to clarify the rules with the BI to align with the December 31st deadline. He stressed the importance of returning money held by sales agents after the closure of POGOs to prevent unjust enrichment.
The BI has also sought a list of foreign nationals from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) who work in POGOs with suspended or non-renewed licenses. This list will aid in tracking down individuals who might remain in the country illegally.
Senators Sherwin Gatchalian and Risa Hontiveros have been vocal critics of POGOs. Gatchalian highlighted that these companies contribute minimally to the country’s revenues and employ fewer Filipinos compared to foreign workers. Hontiveros praised the newly enacted Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA), which allows the government to seize assets from illegal POGOs and use them for victim support.
The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) reported that 1,698 foreign nationals working in illegal Pogo firms have been deported since May 4th, 2023. PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio confirmed these figures and noted that blacklisted individuals could no longer return to the Philippines. However, around 30,000 expatriates working in legitimate POGO firms but facing deportation might still return if they are not facing criminal charges.
Casio expressed confidence in the government’s efforts to deport a significant number of POGO workers, with continued support from various agencies and local government units. The government remains committed to ensuring the orderly departure of all foreign POGO workers, in line with the President’s directive to cease POGO operations by the end of the year.
