Chinese POGO Workers Still in Phl, Reports Say

Chinese POGO Workers Still in Phl, Reports Say

By TheNationweek.com 

June 19, 2025

MANILA, Philippines — Despite the ongoing crackdown on illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), hundreds of Chinese nationals continue to reside in the Philippines, with some allegedly attempting to circumvent immigration laws to avoid deportation.

Some Chinese POGO workers are seeking temporary residence visas through marriage to Filipina citizens, sources at the Bureau of Immigration (BI) disclosed.

Others are in the process of obtaining marriage licenses, a move perceived by authorities as a tactic to evade deportation proceedings, reports said.

Adding to the complexity, some Chinese nationals facing criminal charges in Philippine courts are reportedly attempting to secure clearances by submitting affidavits of denial, despite documented derogatory records.

This has raised concerns about potential loopholes in the legal system and the ability of foreign nationals to manipulate the process.

On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, the BI deported 100 Chinese POGO workers via Philippine Airlines flight to Shanghai from Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado confirmed that the deportees were previously under the custody of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC).

The BI charged them with violating Philippine immigration laws following their arrests in separate operations conducted earlier this year in Pasay, Cavite, and Parañaque.

“We are grateful to the PAOCC for their continued support in identifying and apprehending illegal POGO workers who undermine our laws and threaten public order,” said Viado, highlighting the crucial inter-agency cooperation in combating illegal foreign workers.

“Their removal sends a clear message that the Philippines will not be a refuge for foreign nationals who abuse our hospitality and violate our laws,” Viado stressed, underscoring the government’s commitment to upholding immigration.

He reiterated his agency’s collaboration with other government bodies to dismantle illegal POGO hubs.

“This is part of our broader effort to dismantle the illegal POGO ecosystem. We will continue to work hand-in-hand with our partners to protect our borders and restore integrity in immigration processes,” Viado said.