BI arrests 6 foreigners over alleged illegal work in Binondo

MANILA, Philippines — Six foreign nationals were arrested by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) over alleged illegal employment during a raid in Binondo, Manila, the agency said on Friday.

According to the BI, the six foreign nationals were apprehended during an enforcement operation targeting illegal foreign workers at a shopping mall in Binondo on July 29. The agency has not provided further details about their identities.

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“The arrested individuals were found allegedly engaged in retail activities in violation of the conditions of their stay and the Retail Trade Act,” the BI said in a press release.

“The BI said charges for violation of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, as amended, will be filed against the foreign nationals,” the agency added.

The agency also said that it is verifying the identities and citizenship of two individuals who claimed to be Filipinos.

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With this arrest, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado warned against foreign nationals who will abuse their stay in the country by engaging in various illegal activities. He then said that those erring foreigners will face the law.

“We will sustain our operations against illegal foreign workers and those who facilitate their activities. The Philippines welcomes law-abiding visitors and investors, but those who disregard our laws should expect swift enforcement and eventual removal from the country,” he said in the same press release. /jpv