The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) ordered an investigation into the Alien Employment Permits (AEPs) issued to foreign nationals working in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) companies.
“We will begin the investigation to determine whether we should cancel or revoke the AEPs issued to POGO workers,” said DOLE Undersecretary Benjo Benavidez during the Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon briefing on Thursday.
Benavidez confirmed that DOLE will review both the AEPs and their holders, all of whom currently work in POGO firms. He reported that over 42,000 foreign nationals employed by POGOs hold valid AEPs. However, he stressed that DOLE stands ready to revoke or cancel any permits if it finds that the holders engaged in illegal activities.
“Ideally, foreign workers must use these legally issued AEPs properly and in accordance with the law,” Benavidez added. “If any of these POGO workers with AEPs are involved in unlawful operations, we will revoke or cancel their permits. That is the clear directive of our DOLE Secretary.”
An AEP serves as a legal document issued to foreign nationals seeking employment in the Philippines. The law requires all foreign workers to apply for and secure this permit before they can begin working in the country.
On Wednesday, the Senate formally urged DOLE to conduct a review of the 42,409 AEPs currently held by foreign nationals in the POGO sector.
Earlier reports revealed that authorities recently raided several POGO establishments in Parañaque City and Pasay City for allegedly operating without licenses. Investigators also linked some of these locations to illegal activities, including prostitution and cryptocurrency scams.
