Three Chinese nationals found engaged in scams and activities similar to the operations of the banned Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) have been deported, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the three Chinese nationals were among the 450 foreigners arrested in Paranaque City.

The three deportees left the Philippines last Saturday, Jan. 25, on a flight to Xiamen, China, Viado said. 

He said in a statement: "This is only the beginning. The Bureau is intent on carrying out its mandate swiftly and efficiently, ensuring that violators are held accountable and deported without unnecessary delay.” 

He urged foreign POGO workers still staying in the Philippines illegally to “voluntarily surrender to authorities.”

"Avoid the embarrassment and consequences of arrest. Cooperate now to facilitate your departure,” he declared.

After President Marcos ordered the ban of POGOs in the country, the BI started early this year locating foreign POGO workers who failed to leave the Philippines.

Last Jan. 8, the BI conducted an operation against a POGO-like company in Barangay Tambo, Paranaque City where 450 foreigners were arrested,

"We are working tirelessly to ensure the swift removal of all individuals found violating our immigration laws,” Viado said. 

“This demonstrates our resolve to uphold the President’s mandate and protect the country’s interests,” he added.