Thirteen Chinese nationals have been arrested in Homonhon Island in Eastern Samar where they were caught working in two mining sites, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said on Sunday, Nov. 3.
BI Intelligence Division (BI-ID) Chief Fortunato Manahan, Jr. reported to Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado that the foreign workers were discovered on two separate mining sites on the island.
“Reports show that 11 of the arrested individuals hold working visas but were found working for a different company, a violation of their visa conditions,” the BI said.
“One individual held a retiree’s visa, while another was identified as an overstaying alien,” it added.
It also said all the arrested Chinese nationals are now in the custody of the PAOCC while the bureau initiates deportation cases against them.
“Illegal employment undermines local laws and communities,” Commissioner Viado said in a statement.
“We are committed to monitoring and addressing cases like these to protect our borders and environment,” he assured.
The 13 Chinese nationals were arrested last Oct. 30 by operatives of the BI-ID in coordination with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
“The recent operation in Homonhon Island highlights our close coordination with national agencies to ensure compliance with our regulations,” Viado said.