91 Chinese nationals deported for illegal POGO and mining activities

The Philippine government has deported 91 Chinese nationals for their involvement in illegal offshore gaming and mining activities as part of an intensified crackdown on organized crime.

These deportations followed operations conducted by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), the Bureau of Immigration (BI), and the Chinese Embassy.

A total of 103 individuals were initially cleared for deportation due to their participation in illegal POGO operations, fraud, and illegal mining.

Of the 91 who departed on a Philippine Airlines flight to Shanghai, 89 were linked to illegal offshore gaming, and two were involved in illegal mining.

The arrested individuals were apprehended in various locations across the Philippines, including Pasay, Parañaque, Laguna, Cebu, Pampanga, Tarlac, and mining sites in Homonhon, Eastern Samar.

Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin stated that these deportations are crucial in the continuous efforts to combat organized crime within the country.

Immigration Commissioner Joel Viado affirmed that foreigners engaging in unlawful activities will face appropriate consequences.