The Bureau of Immigration (BI) and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) have collaborated to expedite the deportation of illegal foreign nationals involved in unlawful Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGOs).
In a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed on Monday at PAGCOR’s office in Pasay City, both agencies formalized their cooperation to support President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to enhance national security and intensify the crackdown on undocumented foreigners operating illegally in the country.
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco and BI Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado led the ceremonial signing, marking a key step in the government’s campaign against criminal activities linked to illegal POGOs.
Under the agreement, PAGCOR will allocate ₱50 million to the BI, disbursed in two equal tranches, to fund the deportation of illegal foreign workers currently detained at the Bureau’s Warden Facility and Protection Unit (BIWFPU).
“We are grateful for PAGCOR’s support, which will significantly strengthen our efforts to remove undocumented and overstaying foreign nationals, especially those tied to illicit online gaming operations,” said Viado. “This partnership reflects our commitment to a whole-of-government strategy in safeguarding the country against transnational criminal elements.”
Viado also emphasized that the initiative is in line with President Marcos’ ongoing campaign to dismantle criminal syndicates exploiting weaknesses in the immigration system.
“This MOA is a direct response to growing public concern over POGO-related crimes, and we’re proud to contribute to a nationwide solution,” he added.
