The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has raised concerns about an increasing number of Filipinos being recruited to work for companies resembling Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) in various Asian countries. During a press briefing at the Palace, BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval revealed that approximately 118 Filipinos have been enticed to join what are essentially scam hubs disguised as legitimate business process outsourcing (BPO) firms. These fraudulent operations are particularly targeting individuals already employed in the BPO and POGO sectors within the Philippines.
Sandoval highlighted that these scam hubs are prevalent in countries such as Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos, though the issue is not confined to these locations alone. She noted that many Filipinos are being deceived into these schemes with attractive offers, including a monthly salary of PHP50,000, along with free travel, accommodation, food, and hygiene kits. However, upon arrival, some workers find themselves in dire situations where their passports are confiscated, and they are transported across borders into remote jungle areas.
Repatriated workers have shared stories of being taken to compounds in the jungle, where they are divided into two groups: one working in legitimate BPO operations, and the other involved in scam activities. Those in the scam operations face harsh conditions, including physical abuse if they fail to meet quotas, and are often subjected to a form of debt bondage, requiring them to pay a release fee between PHP400,000 and PHP500,000 to leave.
Sandoval mentioned that while some recruiters have been arrested and charged, the problem persists as long as these recruiters remain active. The BI is actively working to intercept these operations at airports, but the expansion of POGO-like companies into other countries continues to grow the market for such scams.
Winston Casio, director and spokesperson for the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), warned Filipinos against falling for high-paying job offers abroad, emphasizing the severe risks involved. He stated that individuals caught in these scam hubs, alongside foreign nationals, would face criminal charges.