Bureau of Immigration Urges POGO Foreign Workers to Depart by Year’s End

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 warned that failure to comply could result in blacklisting, which would prevent these individuals from re-entering the country and reuniting with their families. She highlighted that around 6,000 POGO workers, whose visas have been downgraded, are expected to leave by the end of the month. 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 activities by the end of the year.