Manila: The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has deported 84 Chinese nationals as part of the Philippine government's efforts to dismantle illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) in the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado announced in a news release that the foreigners were flown to Beijing on a Philippine Airlines flight on April 11. The deportation was coordinated with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and the Chinese Embassy in Manila.

Viado emphasized the operation's alignment with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to shut down illegal POGOs and remove foreign nationals violating immigration laws. He expressed gratitude to the PAOCC and the Chinese Embassy for their coordination.

The 84 individuals were identified as overstaying or undocumented and were detained following a series of enforcement operations. These operations led to arrests in Tarlac, Cebu, and Para±aque.

Viado issued a warning to illegal foreign operators, stating that the Bureau is vigilant and will act decisively. He assured that the BI will continue collaborating with law enforcement agencies to maintain border integrity.

The BI reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the administration's efforts to restore order and uphold the law by targeting illegal foreign activities linked to organized crime.