Philippine Bureau of Immigration bans layovers in deportations of offshore gaming workers
Deported foreign offshore gaming workers can only be placed on direct flights unless no direct route exists.
The Philippines.- The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has banned deportation flights with layovers for foreign offshore gaming workers. Under BI Board of Commissioners Resolution No. 2025-002, deported foreign nationals with alleged links to offshore gaming operators must be placed on direct flights to their countries of origin unless a direct route from the Philippines is unavailable.
BI commissioner Joel Viado said this policy aims to close “a critical loophole” that foreign offshore gaming workers previously exploited. He said: “This is a firm step in strengthening our deportation procedures.” He said the move would lower opportunities for those deported to expand operations in other countries in the region.
The BI, along with the Department of Justice (DOJ), has started working with airlines and foreign embassies to ensure enforcement of the order. Viado urged lawmakers to explore further legislative support to institutionalise the policy and said that the BI is also studying additional security enhancements for deportation procedures, including tighter coordination with law enforcement agencies abroad.
The initiative follows advocacy from senators Risa Hontiveros and Sherwin Gatchalian, who called for stronger measures.
Viado said: “I extend my deepest appreciation to senators Gatchalian, Hontiveros, and to all lawmakers who helped us in pushing for these reforms. Their commitment to closing loopholes in our deportation process has been instrumental in ensuring that foreign syndicates cannot exploit our system. We stand with them in making our immigration policies stronger and more secure.”
