BI deports nearly 1,500 foreigners in first half of 2025

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported a significant increase in the deportation of foreign nationals during the first half of 2025, with nearly 1,500 individuals removed from the country.

This number, 1,422, more than doubled the 717 deportees recorded in the same period last year, indicating a stricter enforcement of immigration laws.

Chinese nationals comprised the largest group of deportees with 957, followed by Vietnamese, South Koreans, Malaysians, and Burmese.

The majority of these deportations were due to foreign nationals working illegally in Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs), despite an existing ban.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado stated that these actions align with the President's directive to swiftly remove foreigners who violate Philippine laws and abuse the country's hospitality.

The BI has implemented enhanced deportation protocols, including faster clearances with the National Bureau of Investigation, streamlined case resolutions, improved embassy coordination for travel documents, and the establishment of a new holding facility.