Indonesian ex-POGO workers’ deportation set

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) anticipates receiving two former Indonesian Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) workers from the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) for deportation on 21 April.

In a radio interview, BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval disclosed that while they had received informal information, the official turnover for the deportation of the individuals was expected the following day.

She added that the BI maintains close coordination with PAOCC.

“We have close coordination with the PAOCC. They have been a good partner of the Bureau of Immigration in terms of locating, arresting, and deporting these illegal aliens,” Sandoval said.

Earlier in the week, two Indonesian men sought assistance from PAOCC, stating their desire to return to Indonesia but their inability to cover travel costs. PAOCC said it would refer their cases to the BI and the Department of Justice-Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking, as well as contact the Indonesian Embassy.

In March, seven other Indonesians surrendered to PAOCC seeking similar assistance.

According to Sandoval, approximately 700 to 800 foreign POGO workers have been deported in recent months.