BI arrests 8 Vietnamese nationals for 'online scam activities'
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has arrested eight Vietnamese nationals in Parañaque City for overstaying, unauthorized employment, and suspected involvement in online scam activities.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado identified one of the suspects as Nguyen Phan Gia Khuong, 29, who was arrested last Nov. 11, 2025 at a unit inside a hotel. The seven other Vietnamese nationals arrested were not identified.
The BI said that Khuong had reportedly remained in the country beyond his authorized stay and was allegedly involved in work and activities not permitted under his visa.
It also said that Khuong has been reported to be engaged in online scam activities that victimized foreigners.
During the operation, BI operatives also found seven other Vietnamese nationals – six males and one female. Also discovered were drug paraphernalia and several bullets inside another room in the same building. The confiscated items have been turned over to the appropriate law enforcement agencies for further investigation.
Viado said that the recent arrest is proof that the BI is firm in its campaign against foreign nationals abusing the country’s hospitality.
“We will not allow individuals who violate our laws or engage in illegal operations to hide in the Philippines,” Viado also.
Khuong and the seven other Vietnamese nationals have been detained at the BI’s warden facility pending their deportation.