Pampanga: The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is preparing deportation proceedings against an American pastor accused of physically abusing at least 160 children in Mexico, Pampanga. Jeremy K. Ferguson, 48, reportedly headed a religious group where he also abused minors. Ferguson was arrested on Aug. 13 by the Central Luzon police and agents of the Pampanga Police Provincial Office's Women and Children's Protection Desk.

According to Philippines News Agency, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado stated in a news release over the weekend that the arrest is part of the agency's 'Shield Kids' campaign aimed at protecting children from abuse by foreign nationals. Viado emphasized that such acts of depravity have no place in the country and assured that Ferguson would be expelled from the Philippines after facing his cases locally, ensuring he cannot harm children again.

Authorities and the Department of Social Welfare and Development reported that the children under Ferguson's watch were subjected to physical assault, deprivation of food, and inhumane treatment such as being chained or locked in rooms.