Former POGO Worker Causes Disturbance at NAIA Amid POGO Operations Closure

October 8, 2024 Philippines Crime & Legal

A chaotic scene unfolded at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 early Friday morning when a Chinese woman reportedly went berserk, causing alarm among travelers and airport staff. According to the Philippine National Police (PNP) Aviation Security Group, the woman engaged in erratic behavior, throwing her belongings in the departure area, lying down on the driveway, and even attempting to jump off the platform.

The situation escalated quickly as airport guards and law enforcement arrived on the scene, preventing the woman from harming herself. Initial investigations revealed that the woman had been barred from leaving the Philippines due to her failure to present an exit clearance. This clearance is a mandatory requirement for all foreign workers exiting the country, particularly those from the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) sector.

The woman was among the POGO workers who had volunteered to leave the Philippines following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to shut down all POGO operations. This move aimed to address increasing concerns over illegal activities associated with the industry, including financial scams and other criminal behavior.

Through an interpreter, the distressed woman expressed her desire to leave the Philippines but indicated she lacked the financial means to pay for her exit clearance. This predicament highlights the challenges faced by many foreign workers in the POGO sector as they navigate the implications of the government’s recent decision.

In the wake of her outburst, the woman is now facing charges related to public scandal according to a report published by ABS-CBN News. Airport authorities are in communication with the Chinese embassy to address her case and provide necessary support. The situation serves as a reminder of the emotional toll and uncertainties experienced by many foreign workers in the wake of abrupt regulatory changes.

The POGO industry has been a contentious topic in the Philippines, known for both its economic contributions and the various societal issues it has raised. The government’s recent ban on POGO operations has forced many workers to reassess their circumstances. For some, the closure brings the possibility of returning home, while for others, it complicates their ability to exit the country smoothly.