Philippine authorities have intensified their crackdown on unauthorized online gambling hubs, stopping over 150 Vietnamese nationals from entering the country in March alone. During the same period, officials also turned away approximately 220 individuals from various nationalities, including 30 Chinese and 14 Indonesians.
Norman Tansingco, Commissioner of the Philippine Bureau of Immigration, clarified that these measures target suspicious travel behavior rather than specific nationalities. The Bureau carefully analyzes data from previous arrests and interceptions to flag travelers who show similar movement patterns or questionable intent.
Moreover, the Bureau extended its scrutiny to foreign workers rescued from recent raids. Authorities barred 57 Vietnamese nationals from re-entering the country after rescuing them—along with 800+ others—from a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) facility in Tarlac.
Tansingco confirmed the Bureau’s plan to continue its large-scale enforcement operations. He urged local government units to report foreign nationals suspected of participating in unauthorized activities. At the same time, regional intelligence teams remain actively involved in identifying, apprehending, and deporting those found violating immigration or labor laws.
Furthermore, the Bureau warned that even foreign nationals with valid working visas face possible removal from the country if they engage in activities that misrepresent their visa status—such as working for fictitious companies or taking part in unrelated ventures.
This coordinated effort among government agencies reinforces the importance of protecting the country from unauthorized online gaming operations. Filipino players should always verify that platforms and operators appear on PAGCOR’s official licensed list to ensure a safe, legal gaming experience.
