Pasay city: The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has approved a PHP50 million grant to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to fund the ongoing deportation of foreign workers employed by illegal offshore gaming operators. In a statement Tuesday, PAGCOR announced that a memorandum of agreement was signed on June 30 at the PAGCOR Executive Office in Pasay City to formalize the funding arrangement.
According to Philippines News Agency, the grant will be released in two tranches of PHP25 million each, with the first tranche disbursed during the ceremonial signing. PAGCOR chairperson and chief executive officer Alejandro Tengco emphasized that the grant is intended to cover the repatriation expenses of illegal POGO workers currently held at the BI Warden Facility and Protection Unit. Tengco stated that these individuals are unable to return to their home countries due to financial constraints, and the grant will ensure they receive necessary assistance in line with international laws and humanitarian considerations.
Tengco also highlighted that PAGCOR has been working closely with the BI to enforce the government's ban on offshore gaming operations, following directives from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. last year. Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado noted that the country is dealing with a complex security environment that necessitates a comprehensive governmental approach to uphold immigration laws. Viado added that expediting the deportation cases of illegal POGO workers will contribute to a safer community for Filipinos, demonstrating the national government's commitment to the interests of its citizens.
