BI arrests 268 foreign fugitives Jan-Jun 2025

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported a significant increase in foreign fugitive arrests in the Philippines from January to June 2025, with 268 individuals apprehended compared to 69 during the same period last year.

Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado emphasized that the Philippines will not serve as a safe haven for fugitives and vowed to continue working with foreign governments and international law enforcement agencies to ensure national security.

Among those arrested were Lee Jihwan, a Korean involved in violent robbery in South Korea; Chu Hoyong, accused of defrauding victims through fake real estate collateral; and four Japanese members of the 'Luffy' syndicate wanted for theft.

In May, seven more Japanese connected to the 'JP Dragon' syndicate were arrested for targeting elderly victims by posing as authorities and stealing their ATM cards and banking details. Their alleged leader, Ryuji Yoshioka, was apprehended in June.

The BI also reported deporting over 1,400 foreigners during the first half of 2025 for violating immigration laws.