The Bureau of Immigration on Friday deported 91 Chinese nationals arrested for working in unauthorized Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hubs.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the Chinese national boarded a Philippine Airlines flight bound for China early morning of Sept. 19.
The flight was arranged by the Chinese embassy, which assisted in the expedited deportation of the subjects.
The deportees were part of the Chinese nationals who were earlier taken into custody during various inter-agency raid operations with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission of POGO operations in Pasay and Paranaque, as well as mining operations in Homonhon.
The bureau clarified that others remain under government custody due to pending court cases and other legal incidents.
Viado said the deportation reflects the government’s firm stance against illegal foreign workers.
“We remain steadfast in enforcing our immigration laws. Those who abuse their stay in the Philippines and engage in unlawful activities will be dealt with accordingly,” he said.
