FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Six Chinese nationals who were former workers of a Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo) in Angeles City, Pampanga, have been deported back to China.
In a letter to Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla dated Monday, October 17, Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Norman Tasingco said the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Pampanga has turned over Yu Min, Nie Zhengbiao, Gan Xueliang, Xu Yuangang, Qian Jie, and Yang Bin.
They were sent back to China via Philippine Airlines flight PR316 at 2:40 p.m. on Wednesday.
READ: Rescued Pogo workers exposed as illegals, face deportation – BI
Remulla said all six foreigners opted to return to their country after the BI earlier canceled their visas.
The rescue of illegal Pogo workers has recently renewed debates on the possible ban of offshore gaming operations in the country.
Earlier, the Philippine government sought to deport 280 Chinese nationals, many of whom operated illegal Pogo sites.
READ: Around 280 illegal Chinese POGO workers face deportation
The BI also canceled the visas of over 1,400 Chinese workers employed in Pogo companies who lack the necessary permits and documents from the government.
READ: BI cancels visa of over 1,400 Chinese workers employed in illegal Pogo firms