The Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported that more than 10,000 foreign workers employed by Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) already applied to downgrade their visas.
On Monday, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado urged all foreign nationals working for POGOs to act quickly. He instructed them to downgrade their visas before the October 15 deadline. This urgent action directly supports the government’s move to shut down POGO operations in the Philippines.
To ease the transition, the BI streamlined the visa downgrading process. This improvement allows foreign workers to complete all necessary steps more efficiently. Viado advised early submission to prevent last-minute complications and reduce processing delays.
He also issued a clear warning. Any foreign national who fails to meet the October 15 deadline—or does not leave the country by December 31—will face serious consequences. These penalties include deportation and a future ban on reentering the Philippines.
The downgrading process enables foreign POGO workers to shift from work visas to temporary visitor visas. This adjustment allows them to stay legally in the country for 59 additional days. That grace period complies with the government’s directive that all foreign POGO employees must exit the Philippines before the end of the year.
Viado firmly stated that the BI will not grant any extensions beyond October 15. Anyone who misses the deadline must leave the country immediately.
On September 30, the BI held a briefing with POGO company representatives. The bureau organized the meeting in coordination with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). During this session, the BI outlined the next steps for visa downgrading and proposed holding dedicated “service days.” These special days will allow foreign workers to downgrade their visas and obtain exit clearances on-site.
To strengthen the initiative, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) will also send representatives to the service days. These officials will collect surrendered Alien Employment Permits from foreign workers leaving their jobs. This coordinated effort forms part of the government’s broader plan to phase out the POGO sector.
The government also formed an interagency task force to oversee the closure of POGO operations. This team includes the BI, Department of Justice, DOLE, PAGCOR, and other involved agencies. Together, they aim to manage the wind-down process and assist displaced foreign workers.
