PAGCOR confirmed POGO work permits will last until the end of 2024

The work permits of both foreign and local employees of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) will only be valid until the end of 2024, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp (PAGCOR) has confirmed.

This also includes those employed under offshore gaming licenses issued to employees of Internet Gaming Licenses (IGLs), which will be valid until December 31, 2024, as reported by Philippine news media.

The above adjustment was approved by PAGCOR CEO Alejandro Tengco in line with the nationwide ban on POGOs announced by the Philippine President during his SONA speech.

Before the ban, POGO licenses, which were later rebranded as IGLs, had a validity of three years.

While PAGCOR adhered to the President’s directive, its CEO Tengco raised concerns about the potential revenue loss of PHP23 billion (approximately US$0.41 billion) and the impact on 40,000 local jobs.

Shortly after the POGO ban was announced on July 22, foreign POGO workers were given 60 days from July 26 to leave the Philippines or face penalties. Local authorities also encouraged the public to help identify illegal POGO workers hiding among them, leading to swift deportations of those found.

PAGCOR also appealed for outsourcing companies serving the US and UK markets to be exempt from the POGO ban.