The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is reviewing the Alien Employment Permits (AEPs) of foreign Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) workers following a request from senators.
The review aims to identify and revoke AEPs held by foreign POGO workers involved in illegal activities.
The DOLE Undersecretary Benjo Benavidez explained that the initial approval of AEPs is based on documentary requirements submitted by applicants. However, if foreign POGO workers with AEPs are found to be engaging in illegal activities, their AEPs may be revoked or canceled.
Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda, who defended the DOLE’s budget, disclosed that over 42,000 AEPs out of the total 60,541 issued were granted to foreign workers employed by “legal” POGOs.
She emphasized the need for DOLE to revoke the work permits of foreign workers found to be working for illegal POGOs. The application fee for an AEP is P12,000.
Source: PhilNews24 | November 17, 2023
