21 Chinese POGO workers deported

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has deported the second batch of Chinese nationals who previously worked for illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) companies.

Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco said 21 Chinese boarded a Philippine Airlines flight to Wuhan on Wednesday.

The deportees were escorted by operatives of the BI Warden Facility Protection Unit, Border Control and Intelligence Unit as well as Intelligence Division, according to Tansingco.

On Oct. 19, the BI deported six Chinese for illegally working in POGO firms.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla monitored the departure of the first batch of Chinese deportees.

The BI is an attached agency of the Department of Justice.

The BI earlier said it would deport more than 300 foreigners, mostly Chinese, who have been arrested by law enforcement agencies for their involvement in illegal online gambling.

“We will ensure that those involved in illegal activities will be deported and blacklisted. This is to create a safe space for foreigners who comply with the country’s immigration laws,” Tansingco said.

The BI said it is working closely with the Chinese embassy in Manila to expedite the release of the Chinese deportees’ travel documents.