39 undocumented aliens working for major telco arrested

The Bureau of Immigration has arrested 39 Chinese nationals connected with a major telecommunications company in an operation in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig on May 29.

The BI said the foreign nationals failed to present valid travel documents and are undocumented aliens in violation of Philippine immigration rules.

The foreign nationals had work visas but issued under petitions from a different company.

“Foreign nationals who wish to work in the Philippines must comply with all our laws and procedures. Those who enter under false pretenses or switch employers without proper authorization will face the full force of the law,” said BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado.

“This operation sends a strong message: the BI will not tolerate violations that threaten our national security and undermine our immigration system,” he added.

The operation was led by the BI Intelligence Division in coordination with the Philippine National Police Southern Police District (PNP-SPD).

Arrested individuals underwent usual booking proceedings and have been transferred to the BI detention facility in Bicutan pending the conduct of deportation proceedings.