Chinese national arrested in Legazpi over immigration, document fraud raps

A Chinese national was arrested in Legazpi City for alleged immigration violations and falsification of public documents, offenses authorities said pose a threat to national security and public trust, the Philippine National Police reported Thursday.

The suspect, identified by the alias “Jong,” was arrested on 2 February in a joint operation involving the Bureau of Immigration, the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency Region 5, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Regional Intelligence Division, and the Legazpi City Police Station under Police Regional Office 5.

Police said the arrest was carried out through a valid mission order after information surfaced linking the suspect to the use of questionable documents and alleged illegal claims of Philippine identity.

Investigators disclosed that the suspect entered the Philippines in August 2002 under a Special Investor’s Resident Visa and later obtained a Special Resident Retiree’s Visa in 2009. Authorities, however, later uncovered irregularities in his personal records and transactions.

Among the violations being pursued is the alleged act of falsely presenting himself as a Filipino to obtain a driver’s license. He was also found to have allegedly used an invalid Tax Identification Number in registering a company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, acts that may constitute immigration violations and falsification of public documents under the Revised Penal Code.

Authorities said the suspect was also tagged as an undesirable alien under existing operational policies due to actions deemed contrary to public interest and security.

PNP chief Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. commended the operating units and stressed the need for decisive action in cases involving fraud.

“Let this serve as a clear reminder—our laws are not optional. We will not tolerate fraud, especially schemes that undermine our systems and weaken public trust,” Nartatez said.

He added that identity and document fraud could be exploited for more serious criminal activities.

“Kapag ang isang tao ay gumagamit ng pekeng dokumento o nagsisinungaling tungkol sa pagkakakilanlan niya, hindi lang ito paglabag sa batas—ito ay banta sa seguridad ng ating bansa,” he said.

Nartatez also highlighted the importance of inter-agency coordination in addressing transnational and organized schemes.

“This successful operation reflects what we can achieve when agencies work as one. Our commitment is simple: protect the public, uphold the integrity of our systems, and make sure accountability is served,” he said.

The suspect remains under custody as legal proceedings continue in coordination with the Bureau of Immigration and other concerned agencies.

Authorities reiterated that immigration enforcement remains a priority, particularly against individuals who abuse legal processes, falsify documents, or attempt to gain unlawful privileges through deception. The PNP also urged the public to report suspicious activities involving fake identities, questionable documents, and illegal residency arrangements.