Philippines Takes Action: Job Fairs Support Workers Displaced by POGO Ban

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The Philippines has been a prominent hub for online gambling, offering several online casino options through Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). These platforms have catered to both local and international players, contributing significantly to the nation's economy. However, recent government actions have led to substantial changes in this sector.

Government Ban on POGOs

In July 2024, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced a nationwide ban on POGOs, citing concerns over illegal activities and social issues associated with their operations. This decision mandated the cessation of all POGO activities by December 31, 2024. The ban aimed to address problems such as money laundering, human trafficking, and other criminal activities linked to unregulated online gambling platforms.

However, for local players, there are still several online casino options in the Philippines. According to iGaming expert Marco Reyes, these sites provide a range of standout features like generous bonuses, great customer support, and stringent security measures to keep players safe. The local market is set to thrive even more now. However, despite the POGO ban, it is still possible for players to access certain offshore sites for now—though it’s likely that this will soon change.  

Impact on Employment

The abrupt closure of POGOs has led to significant job losses. Estimates indicate that approximately 79,735 workers, both Filipino and foreign, are facing unemployment due to the ban. These individuals were employed in various roles, including customer service, technical support, and administrative positions within the online gambling industry.

DOLE's Response: Organising Job Fairs

In response to the mass displacement of workers, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has initiated several measures to assist those affected. One of the primary strategies has been the organisation of job fairs aimed at providing new employment opportunities.

In October 2024, DOLE conducted job fairs in Parañaque City, Makati City, and more recently  in Pasay City. These events saw the participation of 108 employers offering 13,744 job opportunities. Out of 340 registered POGO workers, 33 were hired on the spot, showcasing the immediate impact of these initiatives.

Building on this momentum, DOLE announced a special job fair scheduled for November 19-20, 2024, at the SM Mall of Asia-Music Hall in Pasay City. This two-day event aims to provide approximately 3,000 job vacancies, with 16 local employers participating. The positions available include sales consultants, cashiers, receptionists, encoders, drivers, delivery helpers, and service crew roles.

Support for Displaced Workers

Beyond job fairs, DOLE has implemented additional support measures for displaced workers. These include skills training programs, career counselling, and assistance in job matching to facilitate a smoother transition into new employment sectors. The department is also collaborating with various industries to identify potential job openings that align with the skills and experiences of former POGO employees.

Experiences of Chinese Online Gambling Workers in Manila

The rise of POGOs in the Philippines attracted a significant number of Chinese nationals seeking employment opportunities. The issues caused by the POGOs led China to begin putting pressure on the Philippines to ban them. Many were lured by promises of high salaries and better living conditions. However, upon arrival, numerous workers faced challenges, including salary reductions and poor working conditions. 

Some reported having their passports confiscated and being issued identification cards for local use, limiting their freedom of movement. Additionally, the demanding work schedules, often involving 12-hour shifts six days a week, led to physical and mental exhaustion among employees.

Government Measures to Address Worker Exploitation

In response to reports of exploitation and illegal employment practices within the POGO industry, the Philippine government implemented stricter regulations and enforcement actions to curb abuse. Authorities carried out high-profile raids targeting unlicensed operators and confiscated equipment, with several arrests made for violations of labour and immigration laws. Foreign workers without proper documentation were deported in an effort to tighten controls and discourage illegal employment practices. 

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) also introduced measures to safeguard workers’ rights. This included the establishment of self-contained hubs specifically designed for foreign employees, providing secure accommodations, healthcare access, and legal assistance. 

These hubs aimed to improve oversight and ensure better working conditions. By taking these steps, the government sought to mitigate the exploitation of workers while addressing concerns about maintaining the economic contributions of the industry.

Challenges and Future Outlook

While these initiatives have provided immediate relief to some displaced workers, challenges remain. The sheer number of individuals affected requires sustained efforts and resources to ensure that all can secure stable employment. Additionally, the transition from the online gambling sector to other industries may necessitate retraining and upskilling, which could take time.

The government's proactive approach, through DOLE's initiatives, reflects a commitment to mitigating the adverse effects of the POGO ban on employment. Continuous monitoring and adaptation of these programs will be crucial in addressing the evolving needs of displaced workers and ensuring their successful reintegration into the workforce.