The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced the arrest of five Chinese nationals involved in illegal mining activities in Isabela, as the government continues to intensify its crackdown on unauthorized foreign workers. This aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen enforcement against illegal activities that exploit the country’s natural resources and violate Philippine laws.
The suspects, identified as Xue Xianrong, Xingyue Qiu, Zeng Shuiying, Zhang Huaping, and Xue Junfeng, were apprehended on February 27 while working at a mining site in Barangay Caguilingan, Cordon, Isabela. The operation was carried out by agents from the BI’s Regional Intelligence Operating Unit II, who found that the individuals were working without the necessary permits or visas.
Upon inspection, the foreign nationals failed to present valid immigration documentation, instead showing only digital copies of their passports stored on their mobile phones. Further verification confirmed that they lacked the proper visas required for employment in the country.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado reiterated the agency’s firm stance against illegal foreign workers, particularly those engaged in unregulated industries such as mining.
“This is a clear violation of our immigration laws,” said Viado. “Foreign nationals who wish to work in the Philippines must secure the proper documentation. We will not tolerate any disregard for our laws, especially in industries that pose environmental and economic concerns.”
Following their arrest, the five Chinese nationals were transferred to the BI’s holding facility in Bicutan, Taguig, where they will remain pending deportation proceedings.
Viado warned that stricter monitoring efforts are underway to detect and apprehend foreign nationals working in the country without proper authorization.
“We urge all foreign workers to comply with our immigration policies. Those who continue to work illegally will be dealt with accordingly,” he added.
