POGO Ban to Impact 19,000 Filipino Workers in NCR, DOLE Reports

The impending ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) is set to affect over 19,000 Filipino workers employed in the National Capital Region (NCR), according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

DOLE-NCR Assistant Regional Director Jude Thomas Trayvilla revealed that as of September 16, the agency had identified 19,341 Filipino employees working for 48 internet gaming licensees (IGLs) in NCR. These workers, primarily in administrative roles, IT, marketing, finance, and security, earn wages between P16,000 to P22,000.

Trayvilla noted that the affected companies have submitted lists of employees, and DOLE is coordinating with local governments to map out the workers’ locations. DOLE is preparing assistance programs, including the TUPAD emergency employment program, livelihood projects, and a job fair scheduled for October 10, 2024, at Ayala Malls Manila Bay, with 70 employers expected to participate.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced the nationwide POGO ban during his third State of the Nation Address.