15 Chinese nationals rescued in Zamgoanga Sibugay

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY --- Bureau of Immigration–Regional Intelligence Operatives with security assistance from the 106th Infantry Battalion of the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army, and other intelligence units took custody of 15 Chinese national who were rescued in Zamboanga Sibugay.

Military report said army and immigration agents serve Mission Order No. 2026-365 against 15 Chinese nationals at the Alicia Municipal Police Station in Zamboanga Sibugay on Tuesday. October 13, 2026.

The 15 foreign nationals reportedly surfaced and were rescued by the Alicia Municipal Police Station.

The Bureau of Immigration is conducting further investigation to establish their individual backgrounds and circumstances, including whether they were involved as principal actors in the previously discovered scam hub or were themselves victims of possible human trafficking

. Their respective roles and circumstances remain subject to verification and the outcome of the ongoing investigation.

The implementation of the mission order was conducted in accordance with established legal procedures, with their legal counsel, Atty. Eduardo Alegata, present during the proceedings to safeguard their legal rights and uphold due process.

Following the proceedings, the 15 individuals were transferred to Casa De Coco Pensione House in Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay, for further processing, documentation, and verification of their immigration status, as well as appropriate legal action based on the findings of the investigation.

Initial reports linked the 15 foreign nationals to individuals apprehended during a separate law enforcement operation on October 2, 2026, in Barangay Tandiong Muslim, Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay.

Their association was established during processing, providing investigators with additional leads.

The investigation highlights the importance of inter-agency coordination in determining possible immigration violations, uncovering suspected transnational criminal activities, and identifying potential human trafficking victims.

The 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division reaffirmed its commitment to providing appropriate security and operational support to duly authorized government agencies in the conduct of lawful operations within its area of responsibility, in support of the government’s continuing efforts to uphold the rule of law and address emerging security concerns.