The Philippines Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported the detention of nearly 400 foreign nationals during a raid in Parañaque City on Wednesday.
According to Fortunato Manahan Jr., Chief of the BI Intelligence Division, the individuals were employed by a company in Barangay Tambo and were involved in activities similar to those of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
The Philippine government has mandated a complete ban on POGOs, requiring all operations to cease by the end of December 2024, with expectations for workers to leave the country by that time. The BI stated that the arrested individuals were allegedly involved in illegal activities, including online scams targeting international victims.
Manahan emphasized that these operations violated immigration laws and posed significant risks to public safety.
Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado noted that the raid is part of the bureau’s broader initiative to combat illegal activities and ensure compliance with local regulations among foreign nationals.
The arrested individuals are currently undergoing booking procedures and will remain in BI custody while deportation processes are initiated. Viado reiterated that those who attempt to remain in the country while violating the law will face arrest and deportation.
Meanwhile, Gilbert Cruz, director of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), revealed in a TV interview on Thursday that the PAOCC is still tracking down 21,000 foreign POGO workers following the closure of POGOs in the country. Authorities also warned that Filipinos harboring illegal POGO workers could face charges.
Previously, authorities had indicated that some 11,000 foreign POGO workers were being sought after their mandatory visa modification or departure from the country were not fulfilled.
