10,000 foreign pogo workers downgrade visas

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) reports that over 10,000 foreign workers employed by Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) have applied to downgrade their visas.

On Monday, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado urged all foreign nationals working for POGOs to act quickly and downgrade their visas before the October 15th deadline. This action supports the government’s effort to wind down POGO operations in the country.

To help POGO workers transition smoothly, Viado noted that the Bureau has streamlined the visa downgrading process, allowing applicants to complete the necessary procedures more efficiently. He stressed the need for early submission to avoid last-minute complications.

Viado warned that those who miss the deadline or fail to leave the Philippines by December 31st will face serious penalties, including deportation and blacklisting.

The visa downgrading process enables foreign POGO employees to switch from work visas to temporary visitor visas, allowing them to remain legally in the Philippines for an additional 59 days. This grace period complies with the government’s directive that all foreign POGO workers must leave by the end of the year.

Viado emphasized that there will be no extensions beyond the October 15th deadline, and anyone missing this cutoff must leave the Philippines immediately.

In a recent September 30th briefing, the BI, in coordination with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), met with POGO company representatives to outline next steps. The bureau suggested setting up designated “service days” for workers to process visa downgrades and secure exit clearances on-site.

Representatives from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) will also attend these service days to collect surrendered Alien Employment Permits from POGO workers, as part of the government’s effort to scale back the industry.

An interagency task force, including the BI, Department of Justice, DOLE, PAGCOR, and other relevant agencies, has been established to manage the closure of POGO operations and assist affected employees.

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