BI to expedite exit applications of foreign POGO workers

The Bureau of Immigration on Saturday, said that it will be expediting exit applications for foreign workers employed in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) or Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs).

According to a statement, teams have been formed to personally implement on-the-spot downgrading for POGO and IGL workers with the Department of Labor and Employment.

“Members agreed to conduct service days for POGO companies, where we will implement their downgraded visa status and issue exit clearances,” said BI Officer-in-Charge Commissioner Joel Viado in an inter-agency meeting on POGO closures.

He also reiterated that POGO workers were given until October 15 to voluntarily downgrade, and that those who would not do so would be ordered to leave the Philippines within the next 59 days or face deportation proceedings by December 31.

As of Sept. 24, BI said that they have downgraded 5,955 visas with over 55% having already left the Philippines. 

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. in his third State of the Nation Address (SONA) in July announced the ban on POGOs, and ordered the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to wind down and stop all operations by the end of the year.

—Jiselle Anne Casucian/ VAL, GMA Integrated News