QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has intensified its crackdown on illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), resulting in 518 arrests and 121 deportations since the beginning of 2025.
During a Palace briefing, BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval revealed that an additional 45 individuals voluntarily surrendered to authorities, who are actively pursuing undocumented POGO workers and operators.
“May mga susunod pang major operations ang Bureau of Immigration together with PAOCC,” Sandoval confirmed, indicating that large-scale enforcement actions are forthcoming.
The government is also expediting deportation proceedings in collaboration with foreign embassies. “Nag-initiate na rin po tayo ng talks with embassies to expedite the deportation proceedings… kasi ayaw natin din na nananatili sila ng matagal dito because we would have to spend for their detention,” she said.
Legal action is being considered against POGO employers who have failed to comply with government regulations.
“Tandaan po natin na hindi lang ito isang indibidwal—ito po ay marami, so ang mga kumpanya nila na nagpetisyon sa kanila ay may responsibilidad na siguraduhin na sila ay legal na pumasok, manatili, at aalis,” Sandoval added.
The BI spokesperson reiterated the government’s commitment to enforcing the ban on POGO operations.
“We will not tolerate online gaming here in the Philippines… tayo po ay nakikipag-closely coordinate with law enforcement with PAOCC and BI and PNP to ensure that the order of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ban POGO operations in the Philippines is implemented.” (JCO/PIA-NCR)
