POGO workers' visas downgraded

THE Bureau of Immigration said the working visas of about 2,000 foreign staff of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) had been downgraded to tourist visas following the order of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ban the gambling establishment in the country.

Marcos' order covers the 43 remaining legal POGOs — now called internet gaming licensees by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. — that have valid licenses to operate.

Mostly foreigners, employees belonging to these establishments numbered 100,000.

Commissioner Norman Tansingco. Photo from Bureau of Immigration

Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco said acceptance of applications or renewal of working visas for employees of POGOs ceased on July 23, the day after the President announced the ban.

The Bureau of Immigration would accept voluntary downgrading of POGO staff's working visas until October 15.

«So, with the announcement of the banning of the POGOs, they have no more reason to be working here,» Tansingco said.

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«The downgrading of the working visa to tourist visa will allow them to settle all their accountabilities, secure clearances, and to leave the country within 59 days from the order of downgrading,» he added.