In a significant move against illegal activities, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) deported 26 foreign nationals involved in illicit Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) on Friday, February 7, 2025. The group, comprising 23 Chinese and three Malaysian individuals, was sent back to their home countries on flights operated by Philippine Airlines and Malaysian Airlines, respectively. This action follows the apprehension of 450 foreign nationals in January, who were found to be in violation of Philippine immigration laws, specifically related to POGO scams. BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado emphasized the agency’s commitment to enforcing immigration laws and removing individuals exploiting the country for illegal purposes. The BI’s efforts align with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to eradicate POGOs. Viado warned that the BI, in collaboration with other government agencies, will continue to identify, arrest, and deport foreign nationals engaged in unauthorized and illegal operations, reinforcing the government’s resolve to uphold the rule of law and cleanse the nation of illegal POGOs.
Bureau of Immigration Deports 26 Foreign Nationals Linked to Illegal POGO Operations
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