The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) has approved a P50-million fund for the Bureau of Immigration to expedite the deportation of foreigners working in illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators or POGO.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. banned all offshore gaming operations in mid-2024 after a congressional investigation found them linked to scams, torture, human trafficking, and possible espionage and murder. An estimated 20,000 POGO workers need to be repatriated from the country.
The money will be released in two tranches—P25 million per tranche. The first part of the funds was released during the ceremonial signing on June 30, according to Pagcor. Pagcor chairman Alejandro H. Tengco said the funds will be used for fares home because most of those caught do not have money to buy tickets.
According to Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, faster deportations will ensure that Filipinos are safer in their own country.
