Bureau of Immigration Launches Intensified Manhunt for Over 11,000 POGO Workers
NO LET-UP. Some foreign POGO workers undergo immigration processing before leaving the country in this undated photo. The BI said Friday (Jan. 3, 2025) that it would mount an intensified manhunt against more than 11,000 POGO workers who are still in the Philippines and are now considered illegal aliens. (Photo courtesy of BI)
MANILA – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has launched an intensified manhunt against over 11,000 foreign nationals involved in Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO). The action follows the deadline for downgraded POGO workers to leave the Philippines.
Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado Issues Call to Arms
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado has ordered the intelligence division to start the search for these individuals, who are now considered illegal aliens. According to Viado, the President’s directive is clear: no more POGO operations in the Philippines. He emphasized that these foreign nationals will face arrest, deportation, and blacklisting if they continue to disobey the law.
Compliance and Non-Compliance Status
Bi data shows that out of the 33,863 POGO employees under the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp., 24,779 downgraded their visas. Among these, 22,609 foreign POGO workers successfully left the country by the December 31, 2024 deadline. This means that approximately 11,254 individuals did not meet the required criteria for deportation.
Details of the Action Plan
The BI’s manhunt will target those who did not downgrade and leave by December 31, 2024, as well as those who downgraded but failed to depart by the deadline. Viado stated, “Foreign nationals who continue to disobey these directives will be arrested, deported, and blacklisted. No exceptions will be made.”
Impact on the POGO Industry
The intensified manhunt marks a significant turning point in the BI’s efforts to eliminate unregulated POGO activities in the Philippines. This move is part of a broader strategy to maintain national security and the rule of law. The depth of the operation indicates a strong commitment to enforcing the regulations and ensuring compliance with the mandated timelines.
Public Reaction and Support
The BI’s measures have garnered support from the public, who have long called for stricter enforcement of immigration laws and the shutdown of unregulated gaming operations. The act of deeming these workers illegal aliens and their subsequent deportation garners widespread approval, reflecting the public’s desire for a safer and more法治-oriented environment.
Future Outlook and Implications
As the BI continues to launch its intensified manhunt, the fate of remaining POGO workers hangs in the balance. The BI’s actions will likely lead to a reduction in illegal gaming activities in the country and may set a precedent for future immigration enforcement. This move is anticipated to have a lasting impact on the POGO industry in the Philippines and beyond.
Conclusion
The Bureau of Immigration’s intensified manhunt against over 11,000 foreign POGO workers is a decisive step towards enforcing law and maintaining national security. With clear directives and a zero-tolerance policy, the BI is ensuring compliance with the Dec. 31, 2024 deadline. This operation signals the end of unregulated gaming in the Philippines and fosters a commitment to legal immigration practices.
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