The Philippines Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has mandated an inquiry into the Alien Employment Permits (AEPs) granted to foreign individuals employed in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) firms.
According to the reports, DOLE Undersecretary Benjo Benavidez said that the investigation will focus on assessing whether the AEPs granted to POGO workers ought to be canceled or revoked.
The labor authority noted that they will initiate a thorough review of both the Alien Employment Permits (AEPs) and the individuals holding them, who are employed as POGO workers.
According to Benavidez’s report, there are more than 42,000 foreign POGO workers who have been granted AEPs. He emphasized that if any of these workers are found to be involved in illegal activities, the AEPs issued to them will be promptly canceled or revoked.
“Ideally, these legally issued AEPs must be used properly and correctly,” the DOLE undersecretary said. “If these POGO workers issued (with) AEPs are found engaged in illegal activities, these are subject to revocation or cancellation. That is the directive of our (DOLE) Secretary.”
The AEP is an official document granted to non-resident aliens or foreign nationals who intend to work in the Philippines, allowing them legal admission for employment purposes.
