115 Foreigners Deported for Illegal Stay and Work in Philippines
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced on Sunday, June 8, that 115 foreigners were deported during the first week of June for illegal stay and work in the Philippines. Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado revealed that most of those deported were caught working without proper permits, especially in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) facilities, which the government has recently shut down due to criminal activities.
On June 3, 44 Vietnamese nationals were deported. The following day, June 4, 12 South Koreans and 26 more Vietnamese nationals faced deportation. Then on June 6, one Malagasy national along with 25 Vietnamese nationals were also sent out of the country. These actions underline the government’s commitment to enforcing immigration laws and maintaining national security.
Strong Message Against Illegal Activities
Commissioner Viado emphasized that these deportations send a clear message: the Philippines will not tolerate unlawful behavior. “The Philippines welcomes those who follow our rules. But to those who come here to commit fraud, exploit our people, or violate our laws are expected to be arrested, deported, and banned from ever coming back,” he warned.
The deported foreigners have now been blacklisted by the BI and are prohibited from returning to the country. This strict enforcement reflects the government’s focus on protecting Filipino citizens and upholding the rule of law.
Focus on POGO Shutdown and National Security
Many of those deported were linked to the now-closed POGO operations, which were implicated in various illegal activities. The government’s decisive move to shut down these operations complements the deportations, aiming to curb fraud and other criminal acts associated with these establishments.
Immigration authorities continue to monitor and act swiftly against foreigners residing and working illegally, ensuring that national security remains a top priority.
For more news and updates on immigration and national security, visit Filipinokami.com.