Manila: Over 100 foreign nationals, most of them Vietnamese, were deported in batches on the first week of June this year, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the BI stated that 44 Vietnamese nationals were deported on June 3, followed by 26 Vietnamese and 12 South Koreans on June 4, seven more Vietnamese on June 5, and finally, 25 Vietnamese and one Malagasy on June 6, totaling 115 deportees. BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado confirmed that all deportees were placed on the bureau's blacklist, preventing their return to the Philippines.

Viado revealed that many of the deported individuals were residing or working in Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO) hubs, which have been associated with organized crime activities, including online fraud and trafficking. He emphasized the country's openness to legitimate visitors and investors but warned that those participating in illegal activities would face severe consequences.

"The Philippines welcomes those who follow our rules. But to those who come here to commit fraud, exploit our people, or violate our laws - expect to be arrested, deported, and banned from ever coming back," Viado stated. He also mentioned that more mass deportations are planned in the coming weeks as part of the agency's efforts against illegal aliens.

Viado highlighted the agency's collaboration with the embassies of the involved foreign nationals to expedite proceedings and ensure adherence to Philippine laws. He noted that the initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to enhance law enforcement and prevent the Philippines from becoming a haven for undocumented aliens engaged in illicit activities.