The Department of Justice (DOJ) has officially suspended the 60-day POGO exit deadline set by the Bureau of Immigration (BI). The DOJ cited the need to improve the government’s strategy for phasing out the gaming operators by the end of the year.

On July 22, President Marcos declared a stop to all POGOs, noting their cover as legitimate businesses and their involvement in various crimes. These crimes can range from human trafficking to even murder

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Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla stated that the BI “cannot act independently” on the POGO exit deadline. Immigration Commissioner Norman Tasingco announced that the BI would revoke working visas for POGO workers. The BI will also deny pending and new visa applications for internet gaming licensees (IGLs).

Tansingco added that the bureau expects around 20,000 foreign workers in the industry to reduce their activities within the next two months. He also requested the removal of foreign nationals whose licenses are no longer in effect due to the POGO deadline.

“We will work on this information to further track down other foreign nationals who might still be staying in the country illegally despite the closing down of their companies,” said Tansingco.

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Remulla revealed the first option for foreign POGO workers is to leave the country voluntarily. 

We don’t want people to panic because they issued an order without consulting us,” Remulla noted. He added that the BI would join a high-level meeting with other government agencies, including the DOJ and the National Bureau of Investigation, today.

Remulla also pointed out that the money made from gambling within POGO must be returned. The rationale is to prevent the unjust enrichment of illegal sales agents.

Under the POGO exit deadline, the government will effectively seize the properties and funds made by the illegal industry.

Remulla emphasized the need for careful planning to ensure the organized deportation or repatriation of foreign nationals working in POGOs.

Source: (1)

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