POGOs in the Philippines have been given a clear directive to exit the country by December 31, as offshore gaming firms see their presence gradually diminishing in the local scene.
Highlighting the swiftness of their departure, PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro Tengco expressed at the Stratbase ADR Institute forum his expectation that POGOs’ presence will cease entirely by December 15.
Adding urgency to this movement, the Philippine Bureau of Immigration announced it expects around 20,000 former POGO employees to leave by month’s end, as the impending ban on the offshore gambling sector looms.
In a public statement, the bureau cautioned foreign POGO employees to adhere to the deadline to leave the country by year’s end or risk deportation and blacklisting.
Per the bureau’s report, as of November 7, a total of 21,757 foreign nationals involved in POGO activities had switched their work visas to temporary visitor visas, with 10,821 already having left. Meanwhile, cancellation notices were issued to 12,106 individuals who did not alter their visa status in October.
The bureau emphasized its wish for an organized and smooth departure process for affected foreign workers, urging them to promptly arrange their travel plans.
The official decree prohibiting POGOs in the Philippines has been signed by President Marcos, a decision initially revealed during his State of the Union address in July, receiving strong support from attendees.
This regulatory move marks a significant phase for the Philippines, known as one of Asia’s key gambling hubs, as efforts to eradicate offshore betting sites are set to heighten.
In parallel, the government is ramping up measures to prevent local workers from being adversely affected by the ban, allocating specific agencies to ensure continued employment opportunities within the country.
In a recent conversation with CasinoBeats, KMI Group’s Director, Keith McDonnell, shared that preparation efforts are well underway before the official enactment of the ban.
He explained: “A gradual process is in place, with current POGO licensees required to regularly update authorities on their closure plans by December. Some operators are decentralizing their operations, relocating certain functions internationally to reduce business risk.
“Others are exploring ways to retain their skilled workforce in the Philippines through avenues like obtaining special class BPO accreditation or partnering with outsourcing firms that have such accreditation.”
McDonnell also predicted a continued, albeit changed, presence for igaming operators in the Philippines, given the country’s established heritage and expertise that cannot be easily replaced.
“The Philippines has long been a prime location for businesses in our sector,” he commented.
“With the introduction of new measures targeting illicit activities among Internet Gaming License holders, there is optimism for legitimate businesses to continue thriving here, employing thousands of local, knowledgeable, and experienced Filipinos.”