The Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines stated that nearly 400 foreigners were arrested during a large-scale raid in Parañaque City on Wednesday.
Fortunato Manahan Jr., head of the intelligence division of the Bureau of Immigration, said that these foreigners were working at a company located in Barangay Tambo, engaging in activities similar to those of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO).
Online gambling companies have been banned, and they were supposed to cease operations by the end of December 2024, with their workers expected to leave the country by then.
The Bureau of Immigration stated that these foreigners are suspected of engaging in illegal activities, such as online scams targeting overseas victims. "Their actions were found to violate immigration laws and pose a significant risk to the public," Manahan said.
Joel Anthony Viado, the Director of the Bureau of Immigration, stated that the raid is part of the bureau's efforts to intensify the crackdown on illegal activities and ensure that foreigners residing in the country comply with local laws.
"We will not tolerate any activities that jeopardize public safety and welfare," Viado said.
The Immigration Bureau added that the arrested individuals are undergoing registration procedures and will be detained pending deportation proceedings.
"POGO workers who remain in the country and violate our laws will be arrested and deported," Viado said.
