A Chinese national engaged in business operations without proper documentation was arrested by the Bureau of Immigration during an enforcement operation in Buug on 20 January.

The suspect, identified as Jianhong Liu, 52, from Jinjiang, China, was apprehended at a commercial establishment in Barangay Sampaguita after authorities confirmed his presence and verified his immigration status.

Liu was reportedly acting as the manager of the business and was actively attending to customers at the time of the operation.

During verification, Liu admitted that his passport was not in his possession and claimed it was in Manila. He was only able to present a digital copy of his passport’s data page on his mobile phone. Further checks showed that he was in violation of Philippine immigration laws.

Authorities said Liu was informed of the nature of his violations and of his rights in a language he could understand. He was subsequently taken to the local police station for documentation and further proceedings.

Joel Anthony Viado, commissioner of the Bureau of Immigration, said the government remains firm in enforcing immigration regulations nationwide.

Viado added that the bureau continues to intensify field operations, particularly in the regions, to curb illegal employment and other immigration-related violations.

The BI also reminded business owners and foreign nationals to ensure full compliance with immigration requirements to avoid penalties, arrest, and possible deportation.