MANILA – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) deported 26 foreign nationals involved in illicit Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) on February 7, 2025.
This latest group consisted of 23 Chinese nationals and three Malaysians, who were sent back to their respective countries aboard Philippine Airlines and Malaysian Airlines flights.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado revealed that these deportees were part of a larger group of 450 foreign nationals arrested in January for violating Philippine immigration laws, particularly in relation to POGO scams.
Just the day before, the BI also reported the deportation of 57 foreign nationals, including 46 Chinese, seven Myanmar nationals, three Vietnamese, and one Malaysian, who were arrested for similar offenses between January 31 and February 5.
“We are resolute in enforcing immigration laws and removing individuals exploiting the country for illegal activities,” Viado stated. He assured that the BI would continue working with other government agencies to target foreign nationals involved in illegal operations.
“The fight against illegal POGOs is a whole-of-government effort,” Viado emphasized. “Foreign nationals engaged in unauthorized activities should take this as a warning: we will find you, arrest you, and deport you.”
This ongoing crackdown aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to eradicate POGOs and uphold the rule of law in the Philippines.
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