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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PCG tightens maritime security after arrest of 2 Chinese with fake Sulu entry papers

PCG tightens maritime security after arrest of 2 Chinese with fake Sulu entry papers

Published Mar 29, 2026 11:11 am  |  Updated Mar 29, 2026 01:36 pm
Two Chinese nationals were apprehended by personnel of the Coast Guard Station Zamboanga on March 23, 2026 after they allegedly used falsified travel documents to enter Jolo, Sulu. (Photo: Philippine Coast Guard)
Two Chinese nationals were apprehended by personnel of the Coast Guard Station Zamboanga on March 23, 2026 after they allegedly used falsified travel documents to enter Jolo, Sulu. (Photo: Philippine Coast Guard)
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said Sunday, March 29, that it has intensified its maritime security protocols following the arrest of two Chinese nationals caught using falsified travel documents to enter Jolo, Sulu.
The suspects were apprehended by personnel of the Coast Guard Station Zamboanga on March 23 after they allegedly used fraudulent papers to facilitate movement within Jolo, a known security-sensitive corridor in the southern part of the country.
“Coast Guard Station Zamboanga immediately coordinated with the Bureau of Immigration (BI) for the proper turnover and legal processing of the individuals. While under custody, they were provided with basic necessities in accordance with standard humanitarian protocols,” PCG spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab said.
Despite language barriers, the PCG said authorities conducted an initial interview using translation assistance and ensured that the individuals were informed of their rights and the basis of their arrest in compliance with due process.
“The PCG also facilitated medico-legal procedures in coordination with the Zamboanga City Health Office and the Bureau of Quarantine to ensure proper documentation and assessment,” Cayabyab noted.
Zamboanga City hosts several maritime and security units due to its proximity to international sea lanes. Authorities regularly deal with cases involving undocumented travel and illegal entry.
Subsequently, the suspects were presented before the Office of the City Prosecutor of Zamboanga for inquest proceedings for the formal filing of charges for violation of Article 172 of the Revised Penal Code (Falsification of Public/Commercial Documents) and Commonwealth Act No. 142 (Use of Aliases Law).
The suspects were then returned to Coast Guard custody “pending further legal action and disposition, as advised by the Bureau of Immigration.”
“The PCG reaffirms its steadfast commitment to maritime security and the enforcement of immigration laws, in close coordination with partner agencies, while upholding the rule of law and respect for human rights,” Cayabyab stressed.
Jolo, the capital of Sulu, has long been under tight security due to past incidents involving armed groups and cross-border movements.
The PCG said that travel to the area is closely monitored by both military and civilian authorities.

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PCG Chinese Sulu Jolo fradulent entry papers maritime security
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