Almost 400 aliens who are suspected to be illegally staying in the Philippines were arrested on Wednesday, Jan. 8, during a raid of a firm reportedly operating like the prohibited Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and engaged in alleged scamming activitites.
They were arrested by immigration operatives in Barangay (village) Tambo, Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said in a statement.
“The order of the President is clear. POGO workers who insist on staying in the country and violating our laws will be arrested and deported,” Viado said.
“This raid is part of our intensified efforts to combat illegal activities and ensure that foreign nationals residing in the country comply with our laws,” he stressed.
"We will not tolerate any activities that endanger the safety and welfare of the public,” he added.
Prior to the raid, BI Intelligence Division Chief Fortunato Manahan Jr. said the bureau has been monitoring the activities of the illegal aliens.
"Their operations were found to be in violation of immigration laws and posed significant risks to the public,” Manahan said.
The BI said "the arrested individuals are currently undergoing booking procedures and will be temporarily held by the agency while awaiting deportation proceedings."
“The BI is coordinating with relevant government agencies to expedite the process and ensure that those found guilty of violations are held accountable,” it pointed out.