Over 5,000 POGO workers must downgrade visas or face deportationJustice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla in an ambush interview with reporters on Oct. 21, 2024. MANILA, Philippines — More than 5,000 foreign workers employed by Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) have yet to downgrade their visas, a requirement mandated by the government, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said. On October 15, the Bureau of Immigration said that 12,000 foreign POGO workers have voluntarily applied for the downgrade of their visas. This policy followed the Department of Justice’s announcement that, beginning October 16, all specialized visas issued to foreign POGO workers would be downgraded to tourist visas, giving them 60 days to leave the country. The crackdown on foreign POGO workers is a response to allegations of illegal activities linked to POGO hubs in areas like Bamban, Tarlac, and Porac, Pampanga.

Source: Philippine Star October 21, 2024 20:37 UTC