Philippines immigration orders direct flights for deported former POGO workers
The Philippines Bureau of Immigration (BI) has ordered former Philippine offshore gaming operator workers facing deportation to travel by direct flight where possible, under Resolution No 2025-002 signed on 21 March. BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the measure is intended to reduce opportunities for deportees to evade authorities or extend operations elsewhere; officials also warn that Filipino job-seekers are being recruited into overseas “POGO-like” operations.
The measure affects deportation routes and enforcement against people linked to banned offshore gaming operations.