The Bureau of Immigration (BI) encouraged foreign nationals employed in Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) and internet gaming licensee (IGL) companies to leave the country voluntarily.
Foreign POGO workers must leave the country after the dissolution of their companies, said Commissioner Norman Tansingco.
In his third State of the Nation Address on July 22, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. gave the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation six months to close down POGO operations.
Tansingco said the BI will also release a cancellation order for all issued visas under POGO or IGL companies.
“Companies are expected to comply with this directive and file for the downgrading of their employees’ visas, who shall then leave the country within 59 days from the date of the downgrading order,” according to him.
The immigration chief said that he expects peaceful and voluntary compliance, but will take legal action against those who refuse to comply.IMT
