LABOR Secretary Silvestre Bello III on Thursday said foreigners applying for permits to work in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) establishments are now required to present a clearance from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) before their applications are approved.
Based on Labor Advisory No. 19-2020, Bello said the Pagcor must certify that the POGO outlet hiring the foreign worker is already authorized to resume operations.
Bello said the move is necessary since many areas in the country are still under modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ), where not all industries are already allowed to resume their operations.
“In addition to the documentary requirements for the issuance of AEPs, the applicant shall also submit a copy of a recent Pagcor Authorization to Operate, as proof that the POGO establishment is authorized to resume operations,” said Bello.
The AEP is a permit issued by the DOLE to a non-resident alien or foreign national seeking admission to the Philippines for employment purposes.
Generally, the DOLE only requires AEP applicants to submit their duly accomplished application form, a photocopy of the passport of the foreign national with a valid visa, original copy of Notarized Contract of Employment/Appointment or Board Secretary’s Certificate of Election enumerating the duties and responsibilities, annual salary, and other benefits of the worker; 2 pieces of 2í—2 ID picture with white background, proof of Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN), and authorization letter from the company or foreign national and photocopy of their IDs.
The Labor advisory directed all DOLE regional offices to continue the observance of safety measures versus the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the mode of accepting AEP applications and release of AEP cards.
In accepting AEP applications, Bello said DOLE regional offices may utilize their existing online system or may accept applications via email.
On the other hand, for the issuance and release of AEP cards, Bello said they may use available courier services to deliver the cards at the expense of the applicants or their employers.
