Five Chinese nationals were arrested in three separate enforcement operations in Zamboanga City and Tabuk City, Kalinga, for alleged violations of Philippine immigration laws, according to the Bureau of Immigration (BI).

BI intelligence operatives carried out the arrests as part of the agency’s continuing campaign against undocumented foreigners and those illegally working in the country.

In Zamboanga City, authorities apprehended Rongtian Shi, 40, during an operation at a cellphone and accessories store along Maria Clara Street in Barangay Zone 3.

Agents said Shi was actively managing the business and assisting customers at the time of his arrest.

Verification of his immigration records revealed discrepancies, including a working visa petitioned by a company based in Quezon City, raising questions about the legality of his employment in Zamboanga.

In Tabuk City, Kalinga, operatives arrested Huang Xilai, 57, inside a commercial establishment in Barangay Dagupan Centro.

According to the BI, Huang was seen overseeing store operations, directing Filipino employees and performing cashier duties.

Overstaying alien

Authorities said he had overstayed and was engaged in gainful employment without the proper visa or permit. He also failed to present valid travel documents, showing only a digital copy of his passport.

In a separate operation in Barangay Bulanao, also in Tabuk City, BI officers arrested three more Chinese nationals for similar violations, including overstaying, unauthorized employment, working beyond the scope of their visa petitions and being undocumented.

They were identified as Huang Huifang, 51; Huang Menggui, 24; and Huang Mengjiao, 28.

All five foreign nationals were transported to Manila for booking, medical examination, biometrics processing and documentation ahead of preliminary investigation and possible deportation proceedings.

Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the series of arrests underscores the bureau’s resolve to strictly enforce immigration regulations.

“The Bureau of Immigration remains firm in its mandate to go after foreign nationals who abuse their stay and violate Philippine laws,” Viado said.

“These enforcement actions are part of our continuing efforts to protect national security and safeguard jobs for Filipinos.”