342 Chinese workers arrested in POGO

Found at the site were thousands of mobile phones that the BI suspects were being used for online and phone scamming. #Chineseworkers

The suspected illegal foreign workers. (Analy Labor)

On Thursday evening 19 December 2019, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) conducted a joint operation together with the QCPD and PAGCOR wherein

A total 342 foreigners were arrested at a online gaming company in Quezon City Thursday night for illegally working in the country, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said.

BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said the Chinese nationals found at the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th floors of the Global Trade Center Building in Barangay Bago Bantay did not have working visas.

The Chinese workers claimed they were working for a licensed Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) who did not have the required permit to operate issued by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

BI Intel Division Chief Fortunato Manahan said they sought the assistance of PAGCOR in confirming the POGO’s permit and was informed that the company was only licensed but not yet allowed to operate.

Manahan also said the company used several names and suspected that this may be a front for other unscrupulous activities.

“We had reason to suspect that the company is a front for illegal cyber activities and investment scams,” said Manahan. “We coordinated this operation with the Chinese government, which confirmed the company’s involvement in illegal activities, victimizing mostly their compatriots in China.”

Found at the site were thousands of mobile phones that the BI suspects were being used for online and phone scamming.

The Chinese government has likewise reportedly cancelled the passports of those involved, making them undocumented aliens and tagging them as fugitives.

“This is another massive arrest by our Intelligence Division, in coordination with the Quezon City Police District-National Capital Region Police Office (QCPD-NCRPO). This could not have been possible without their help, and we wish to thank QCPD Director Police Brigadier General Ronnnie Montejo for his support,” said Morente.

Morente warned again all foreign nationals from using the country as their base for illegal activities.

“We will not stop until we clear our country of illegal aliens who abuse our hospitality. Follow our laws lest face the consequences,” he warned.

All 342 illegal Chinese are currently detained in a temporary holding facility in Camp Caringal, Quezon City pending their deportation.