Mongolian pilot student arrested for alleged espionage activities in Zambales

A 30-year-old Mongolian pilot student was arrested on 12 February by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) for activities considered potentially harmful to national security.

The arrest took place at an aviation school in Barangay Lipay Dingin, Iba, Zambales, during a joint operation by the BI Intelligence Division–Special Response Team and elements of the 69th Infantry Battalion, 7th Infantry Division of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Boldbaatar Bold-Erdene, a graduating pilot student, was tagged by the BI as an undesirable alien for allegedly posing a risk to public safety. Official intelligence reports indicate he is a trained jet fighter pilot with suspected ties to the Chinese government.

During flight exercises, Bold-Erdene reportedly conducted aerial photography of Iba Airport and the nearby Palauig River area, around five nautical miles from the airport.

The Bureau of Immigration underscored that foreign nationals engaging in activities inconsistent with their visa status, particularly those with national security implications, will face immediate action.

“The Philippines will not allow its institutions, including civilian training facilities, to be used for activities that may compromise national security,” the Bureau said. “Foreign nationals must strictly adhere to the conditions of their stay under Philippine law.”

After the arrest, Bold-Erdene was transported to the BI Main Office in Manila for booking, medical examination, and biometric processing, and later transferred to the Bureau of Immigration warden facility pending deportation proceedings.