Despite previous crackdowns, operations similar to Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGO) continue to function within the country. On January 8, 2025, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested 400 illegal foreign workers at a company located in Barangay Tambo, Parañaque.

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(Picture of the Bureau of Immigration)

The 400 illegal foreigners are currently detained at the BI Detention Facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City, while deportation proceedings are underway.

According to BI Intelligence Division Chief Fortunato Manahan Jr., the foreigners were found to be conducting online scams targeting victims overseas.

Manahan stated that the activities of these individuals had been under surveillance for some time.

"The Bureau's intelligence division, fugitive search unit (FSU), and Anti-Terrorist Group (ATG) have been monitoring the activities of these individuals for some time. Their operations were found to be in violation of immigration laws and posed significant risks to the public," Manahan said.

Prior to this, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had ordered the closure of all POGOs in the country and similar companies engaging in fraudulent activities. These foreign workers also violate immigration laws, as they often either lack proper documentation or illegally extend their stay in the country.