Pasay city: Operatives of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) recently arrested five foreigners during an intelligence operation in Pasay City.

According to Philippines News Agency, the BI reported that the individuals arrested included a 51-year-old Chinese national who was overstaying and allegedly working without the appropriate visa. In addition, authorities detained a Malaysian national, a Taiwanese national, a South Korean national, and another Chinese national. The charges against them range from unauthorized employment to overstaying and working for entities not aligned with their declared visa sponsors.

The operation took place at a casino in the Newport City area, where BI intelligence officers uncovered several foreigners allegedly engaging in activities inconsistent with their immigration status on May 5. The operation was initiated following intelligence reports of potential immigration violations within the establishment. Coordination with local police authorities was ensured before the operation's execution.

All five foreign nationals were transferred to the Bureau of Immigration Warden Facility in Taguig City for documentation and the filing of appropriate immigration charges. BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado emphasized the Bureau's commitment to addressing misuse of Philippine visas and work permits. 'Our message is clear: foreign nationals who violate the conditions of their stay will be apprehended and removed from the country. Operations like this will continue nationwide,' Viado stated.