The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has issued a strong recommendation for foreign workers involved in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO) to exit the country before the December 31 deadline. BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval emphasized the importance of adhering to the government’s directive, particularly for those with familial ties in the Philippines.
Sandoval explained during a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon briefing that compliance with the exit order is crucial for POGO workers who wish to return to the Philippines in the future. She warned that failure to leave by the specified date could result in blacklisting, which would prevent re-entry and complicate family reunions.
Approximately 6,000 POGO workers, whose visas have been downgraded, are expected to leave the country by the end of the year. Sandoval stressed that there will be no extension of the deadline, and those who remain past December 31 will face deportation proceedings.
This directive aligns with Executive Order 74, signed by President Marcos in November, which mandates the cessation of all POGO, Internet gaming, and other offshore gaming activities in the Philippines by December 31.