BI deports 23 Chinese nationals for POGO, cyberfraud involvement

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) deported 23 Chinese nationals on November 21 for alleged involvement in unlawful Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO) activities and cyberfraud.

The Chinese nationals were subjects of deportation orders for multiple violations of Philippine immigration laws and were wanted criminals in their home country.

They were flown to Shanghai Pudong International Airport via Philippine Airlines from Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado stated that this action demonstrates the administration's commitment to removing foreigners involved in illegal activities and upholding national security.

Viado assured the public that enforcement operations will continue, leading to more arrests and deportations of individuals violating Philippine laws.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced the ban on POGOs during his 2024 State of the Nation Address, citing their connections to illegal activities like human trafficking, money laundering, and cyber-scam operations.