The Bureau of Immigration (BI) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the Philippines conducted a joint law enforcement operation inside a commercial building on Macapagal Avenue in Pasay City, successfully arresting 49 foreigners suspected of illegal operations. These individuals were accused of working in a scam center disguised as a legitimate digital service and online marketing company.
Joel Anthony Viado, the Commissioner of Immigration, revealed at a press conference on Saturday that the raid was based on reliable intelligence and was carried out strictly according to the mission order.
"We found that these foreigners did not hold valid visas, and two of them even had criminal records," Viado added.
Among those arrested, a 29-year-old man from Bangladesh was placed on the immigration watchlist for his involvement in illegal recruitment activities; another 25-year-old man from Pakistan was already on the immigration alert list due to suspected financial fraud.
Immigration officials stated that all arrested individuals' identities have been registered, and they will proceed with deportation and be placed on the Philippines' entry blacklist, prohibiting their re-entry.
Viado emphasized, "This operation demonstrates our close cooperation with the NBI, and we are determined to combat illegal foreign forces to ensure they cannot engage in unlawful activities in the Philippines."
The Philippine government has taken a tough stance against offshore gaming operators (POGOs) due to their close association with a series of criminal activities, including human trafficking, scams, and illegal detention.
"The President is resolute in combating illegal activities, and we will not tolerate any form of exploitation and fraud, which not only jeopardizes national security but also hampers economic development," Viado concluded.
This law enforcement action once again proves the Philippine government's zero-tolerance policy towards illegal foreign enterprises and cybercrime, with similar raids and crackdowns likely to continue in the future.
