THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) deported over the weekend another batch of 91 Chinese workers arrested from unauthorized Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) hubs.
Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said on Sunday that the 91 Chinese deportees were the second biggest batch to be deported, adding that the group departed on a Philippine Airlines Flight bound for China on Sept. 19.
“The said flight was arranged by the Chinese embassy, which assisted in the expedited deportation of the subjects… in compliance with the directive of the President to intensify the government’s campaign against illegal offshore gaming operations,” Viado said.
He added that the deportees were part of the Chinese workers who were taken into custody during various inter-agency enforcement efforts with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission on POGO activities in the cities of Pasay and Parañaque, as well as in mining operations in Homonhon.
The bureau clarified that the rest of foreign workers under custody have remained due to pending court cases.
“Those who abuse their stay in the Philippines and engage in unlawful activities will be dealt with accordingly,” Viado said.
The deportation was spearheaded by the BI’s Deportation and Implementation Unit (DIU) under Alexi Val Arciaga, in coordination with law enforcement agencies.
The bureau assured the public that it will continue to coordinate with law enforcement and concerned agencies to implement the administration’s directive against illegal POGO activities.
In June, the BI deported 115 foreigners, who were found to be illegally staying and working in the country, majority of them were arrested for working without proper documentation in POGO hubs.
In November 2024, the government moved to dismantle POGOs due to its association with criminal syndicates, cybercrime, and human trafficking.
Viado said that the Bureau remains firm in its support of the government’s efforts to crack down on illegal POGO operations and remove foreign nationals who violate immigration laws.
“The President has made it clear: We will not allow foreigners to abuse our immigration laws or exploit our systems for illegal activities,” said Viado.
The BI reiterated its warning that while the Philippines remains open to legitimate visitors and investors, those who engage in illegal activity will be dealt with to the full extent of the law.
“The Philippines welcomes those who follow our rules,” said Viado. “But to those who come here to commit fraud, exploit our people, or violate our laws — expect arrest, deportation, and restriction from ever coming back.”
