The Philippines’ Bureau of Immigration (BI) has implemented a new policy requiring direct flights for the deportation of foreign nationals involved in crimes linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
According to the Philippine News Agency, this change, formalized in BI Board of Commissioners Resolution No. 2025-002, dated March 21st, 2025, aims to close a significant loophole that previously allowed these individuals to continue their criminal activities in other countries.
This decision aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to fully ban POGOs. BI Commissioner Joel Viado emphasized that the policy strengthens deportation procedures and reduces the risk of deported individuals expanding their operations in other parts of Asia.
The new policy follows calls from Senators Risa Hontiveros and Sherwin Gatchalian for stricter measures to prevent high-profile criminals from manipulating deportation protocols. Viado expressed gratitude to the senators and other lawmakers for their support in pushing these reforms.
The BI, in collaboration with the Department of Justice (DOJ), is working closely with airlines and foreign embassies to ensure the smooth implementation of this directive.
Additionally, the bureau is exploring further security enhancements for deportation procedures, including improved coordination with international law enforcement agencies.
