The Bureau of Immigration (BI) of the Philippines has revealed that, out of more than 30,000 foreign workers employed by Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), only 12,000 have voluntarily downgraded their visas.
This process allowed these individuals to switch from work visas to temporary visitor visas, permitting a legal stay in the Philippines for up to 59 days while they settle their affairs.
The deadline for voluntary visa downgrading expired on October 15th, with no extensions granted.
According to The Manila Times, the BI, along with other government agencies, will now focus on pursuing foreign employees who failed to comply and continue to operate in smaller, less visible online gaming hubs. These operations, often located in resorts or residential areas, have become the new target of enforcement efforts.
Authorities are determined to address this issue before the year ends, with the BI aiming to take action by December 31st. Foreign workers who do not comply with the visa downgrading directive will be arrested and face deportation proceedings.
A task force has been established to address the situation, composed of multiple government bodies, including the Department of Justice, the Department of Labor and Employment, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, the Philippine National Police, the National Bureau of Investigation, and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission.
This coordinated effort underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that the remaining POGO workers either regularize their status or leave the country.
