By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Raffy Tulfo is calling for the immediate deportation of all former employees of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
During a hearing on Thursday by the Committee on Games and Amusement, Tulfo inquired about the status of POGO operations following the President’s deadline of December 31, 2024. He asked the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) for an update.
“PAGCOR, what is your plan regarding this, and how do you intend to send home former POGO workers? They have no place in our society,” Tulfo said.
“Their jobs are over, and if they remain, these workers could become involved in various crimes,” he added.
According to PAGCOR, 42 internet gaming licensees (IGLs), seven content providers, and 11 support providers have already shut down their operations after the deadline.
As of August 2024, there were a total of 58,181 Filipino POGO employees and 30,144 foreign workers.
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