The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has raised concerns about an increasing number of Filipinos being enticed 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 recruited to join what are essentially scam hubs disguised as legitimate business process outsourcing (BPO) firms.
Sandoval highlighted that these scam operations are specifically targeting individuals already working in the BPO and POGO sectors. She noted that many Filipinos are being deceived into participating in these fraudulent schemes, with countries like Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos being popular destinations for such activities. However, she emphasized that the issue is not confined to these nations alone.
The allure of high salaries, around PHP50,000 per month, along with perks such as free travel, accommodation, food, and hygiene kits, is what draws Filipinos to these offers. Sandoval mentioned that the recruitment often occurs within BPO companies, initially presenting the job as a customer service role. However, upon arrival in countries like Thailand, workers find their passports confiscated and are sometimes smuggled 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 in scam operations. Those in the scam hubs 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 between PHP400,000 and PHP500,000 to be released from their employment.
Sandoval reported that some recruiters have been apprehended and charged, but the problem persists as long as recruiters remain active. She stressed the importance of continued efforts to curb this issue, especially as these POGO-like companies continue to expand internationally.
Winston Casio, director and spokesperson of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, warned Filipinos against falling for the promise of high-paying jobs abroad, stating that the risks far outweigh the benefits. He cautioned that those caught in scamming hubs, alongside foreign nationals, would face criminal charges.