Chinese National Arrested for Fraudulent Filipino Identity Use in Cagayan de Oro
A Chinese man was arrested in Cagayan de Oro City for fraudulently presenting himself as a Filipino, authorities confirmed. The Bureau of Immigration (BI) revealed that the individual, Xu Shiyan, 38, was apprehended on May 21 during a coordinated operation involving the BI Intelligence Division, the Philippine National Police, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Local sources indicate that Xu Shiyan possessed several Philippine-issued documents bearing his name, including a birth certificate, Tax Identification Number (TIN) card, postal ID, driver’s license, and a Commission on Elections (COMELEC) registration slip. These documents were seized during the arrest.
Discrepancies in Citizenship Claims and Official Records
Xu claimed to be a dual citizen, stating his mother was Filipino and his father Chinese. However, community leaders and immigration experts highlighted contradictions in his claims. Chinese law does not recognize dual citizenship, and his Chinese passport lists Guangdong, China, as his birthplace, which conflicts with the Philippine birth certificate he presented.
Furthermore, immigration records show Xu holds a working visa valid until 2026, suggesting he has not undergone naturalization as a Filipino citizen. This evidence raises serious doubts about the authenticity of his documents and citizenship status.
The Urgent Need to Address Identity Document Fraud
Officials emphasize that this case underscores the importance of stronger cooperation between government agencies to prevent the misuse of Philippine identity documents by foreign nationals. “This case reflects the urgent need for stronger inter-agency coordination to curb the misuse of Philippine identity documents by foreign nationals. We will not tolerate any form of deception that undermines our immigration system,” a senior immigration official said.
Authorities are calling on all relevant agencies to halt the illegal issuance of Philippine documents. Such fraudulent activities jeopardize national security and must be met with strict legal action, local experts warned.
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