DOLE issues 8,000 permits to foreign workers from January to April 2024

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has issued around 8,000 alien employment permits (AEP) to foreign workers employed in licensed internet gaming operators in the country from January to April this year.

DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma made the clarification following earlier reports that the department has stopped issuing AEP to foreign workers in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) since May 2.

Based on Advisory No. 24-04, DOLE-NCR Director Sarah Mirasol said they shall no longer issue AEPs to foreign employees of companies still identified as “POGO.”

In an interview during the Kapihan sa Manila Bay Forum, Laguesma said the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) streamlined its regulations and transitioned into internet gaming licenses.

"We are strictly implementing the requirements, and we are no longer accepting POGO applicants,” he said.

The Labor chief admitted that the department is still issuing AEPs but with stricter requirements, adding “we also now ban the work-from-home setups for foreigners.”

“We directed regional implementers to monitor and inspect their areas so that we will be able to determine if the firms are adhering to our country’s regulations,” Laguesma added.