The Iloilo City Council is set to conduct a comprehensive investigation into reports of the rising number of undocumented immigrants operating within the city, following a resolution introduced by Councilor Romel Duron.
The investigation will be managed by a committee of the whole, reflecting the Council’s serious concern over the presence of irregular migrants and the potential unlawful activities they may be involved in.
Duron, in his resolution, called for all relevant government agencies to participate in the investigation. This includes inviting the president of the local homeowners’ association, where it was discovered that some foreigners were renting homes illegally.
“It’s not only illegal immigrants, but illegal activities are also happening in our city, especially with the ongoing Senate investigation into Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO),” Duron remarked. He highlighted the necessity of addressing these issues swiftly to maintain public safety and order.
For several months, Duron noted, there have been incidents of undocumented migrants engaging in illegal activities, with some individuals already apprehended.
Reports have surfaced about foreigners residing in Iloilo City subdivisions, who cannot communicate in either English or Hiligaynon, raising suspicions about their legal status and activities.
Duron emphasized the need for the Bureau of Immigration to explain the increase in tourists working in Iloilo City despite having only 30-day visas. The Council also plans to invite the Department of Labor and Employment to verify if these foreigners have obtained the necessary work certifications.
The rise in illegal activities allegedly linked to foreigners, including human trafficking, crimes against women and children, drug-related offenses, and other serious crimes, has caused alarm in the city. Duron stressed the urgency of addressing these issues to safeguard the community.
The councilor assured that coordination with Vice Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon’s office is underway to ensure a timely and effective inquiry.
In 2023, 17 Chinese nationals were apprehended by the City Drugs Enforcement Unit of the Iloilo City Police Office and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center of the Department of Information and Communications Technology for operating a cybersex den in Barangay Lawa-an, Jaro District.