Philippines to hold another job fair for former IGL workers affected by POGO ban??
The Philippines Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is set to hold another job fair aimed at assisting Internet Gambling Licensee (IGL) workers who lost their jobs following the ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). Local media reported that Labour Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma confirmed the initiative, stating that the previous job fair saw nearly 200 participants, with several securing employment.
Laguesma mentioned that while some workers were hired, further efforts are necessary to accommodate more displaced employees. The job fair will prioritise former IGL workers but will also be open to other job seekers. However, the exact date for the event has yet to be announced.
POGO ban?
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered the prohibition of all POGOs in July last year during his State of the Nation Address (SONA), citing their involvement in crimes such as human trafficking, illegal detention, and financial scams. In November 2024, Executive Order No. 74 extended the ban to include all offshore gaming operations, along with the suspension of new licence applications, renewals, and operational terminations.
An interagency task force, comprising the Bureau of Immigration (BI), the Department of Justice (DOJ), DOLE, and other government bodies, was established to manage the closure of POGOs and help affected workers.
Assistance for displaced workers
Last week, DOLE encouraged former POGO employees seeking work to approach their offices for support. With an estimated 40,000 individuals affected by the shutdown, additional efforts are needed.
Salary expectations and job availability remain key concerns among affected workers. Many positions offered at job fairs are entry-level, which may not align with the salary levels that former POGO employees previously earned.
A local media reported that some displaced workers hesitate to seek assistance due to a lack of personal connections within DOLE. Laguesma reassured them there is no need for recommendations or personal referrals, as DOLE offices, in collaboration with Public Employment Service Offices (PESOs) in local government units, are open to all.
Regional impact of the POGO closure
DOLE data shows that most affected workers come from the National Capital Region, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, and Central Visayas. The closure of POGOs has led to job losses in these areas, prompting the government to introduce employment support measures.
The government stressed it remains committed to assisting displaced workers by expanding employment programmes and strengthening local government partnerships to provide alternative livelihood opportunities.
