BI cracks down on errant foreigners

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Tuesday warned that foreign nationals who violate Philippine immigration laws will face deportation, blacklisting, and other legal sanctions as it stepped up enforcement efforts in Siargao Island.

Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado said the Philippines remains open to legitimate tourists, investors, students, and foreign residents, but those who violate the country’s immigration laws should expect to face enforcement action.

The warning follows the arrest of 10 foreign nationals in separate intelligence-driven operations in Siargao on June 26 for alleged immigration violations, including overstaying, working without the required permits and being classified as undesirable aliens.

Mr. Viado said the operation forms part of the bureau’s continuing efforts to strengthen its immigration presence on the island following his recent dialogue with local government officials.

He said the BI has intensified immigration enforcement, expanded coordination with local government units and law enforcement agencies, enhanced intelligence sharing, and conducted capacity-building programs to improve the detection and reporting of immigration violations.

Mr. Viado said enforcement actions are based solely on violations of Philippine immigration laws and not on a person’s nationality, race, or religion. — Mark Joseph M. Sanchez