The Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested two Chinese nationals for various immigration violations during an enforcement operation in Tacloban City on 29 January.
Arrested during the operation were Zhu Fulin, 51, and Wu Huoyan, 53—who were apprehended at an e-bike commercial establishment in Barangay 91, Abucay, Tacloban City.
Both were found to be overstaying aliens and were engaged in unauthorized employment despite holding only tourist status.
Zhu was unable to present any valid immigration document, and records show that he has been overstaying since 2023.
Meanwhile, Wu overstayed after his visa expired in 2020. Authorities also noted that Wu attempted to misrepresent himself as a Filipino citizen by presenting a Philippine Identification Card when questioned.
Both individuals were arrested after being caught in the act working at the establishment.
Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the arrests underscore the Bureau’s firm stance against foreign nationals who abuse the country’s immigration system.
“We will not tolerate foreigners who overstay, misrepresent themselves, or illegally engage in work at the expense of our laws and our people,” Viado said.
“These operations reflect our continuing coordination with intelligence and law enforcement partners to protect public interest and national security,” he added.
The two Chinese nationals were flown to Manila, and are held at the BI warden’s facility while they face deportation proceedings.