BI to require direct flights for POGO-linked deportees

Deportation flights with layovers for foreign fugitives involved in POGO-related crimes have been officially prohibited, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced on Monday.

Resolution No. 2025-002, signed on 21 March 2025 by the BI Board of Commissioners, states that deported foreign nationals who are involved with Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), may only be sent home by direct flight, unless there isn't a direct flight from the Philippines.

"This policy closes a critical loophole that POGO deportees have exploited," said BI Commissioner Atty. Joel Anthony Viado.

"This is uncharted territory since we started mass deportations and arrests this year in compliance with President Ferdinand 'Bong Bong' Marcos' declaration of a POGO ban," he explained.

"The Senate hearings gave us the opportunity to hear more viewpoints, which we have incorporated into our deliberations. This is a crucial step in fortifying our deportation protocols. Foreign nationals connected to POGO would have fewer options to grow their businesses in other Asian nations if direct flights were eliminated," the BI chief added.

The action comes after Senators Risa Hontiveros and Sherwin Gatchalian advocated for tougher steps to prevent high-profile criminals from abusing deportation policies.

"I extend my deepest appreciation to Senators Gatchalian, Hontiveros, and all the lawmakers who helped advance this reform. Their commitment to closing loopholes in our deportation process has been instrumental in ensuring that foreign syndicates cannot exploit our system. We stand with them in making our immigration policies stronger and more secure," Atty. Viado said.

To ensure the new order is implemented smoothly, the BI began working with airlines and foreign embassies in cooperation with the Department of Justice (DOJ). The Bureau also requested legislators to look into additional legislative backing for the policy's institutionalization.

In addition, the bureau is studying other security improvements for deportation processes, such as closer cooperation with foreign law enforcement.

"This is just the beginning. We will continue reviewing and strengthening our deportation processes to prevent criminals from finding ways back into the country or evading justice," Atty. Viado stressed.

"This policy shows that the government is serious about combating transnational crimes and strengthening the security of our country. We will not allow foreign criminals to exploit our system. Our message is clear—if you break the law, we will ensure that you are permanently expelled from the Philippines with no chance to expand your syndicate," he disclosed.