Iloilo City considers subdivision resident inventory ordinance

Iloilo City councilor and committee chair on public safety, Sedfrey Cabaluna, is considering an ordinance for conducting resident inventories in subdivisions to monitor foreign nationals.

The proposal follows a resolution supporting the ban on Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) passed by the Sangguniang Panlungsod last week.

Cabaluna emphasized the need to address data and privacy issues during discussions with subdivision operators, homeowners, and developers.

He cited two recent cases involving foreign nationals: the arrest of 17 Chinese nationals for cybercrime in 2023 and another arrest for selling fake cigarettes.

The councilor intends to investigate these incidents further to determine if there is a larger issue or network of illegal activities.

Cabaluna stressed the importance of close monitoring by local authorities, particularly the Bureau of Immigration, which oversees foreign nationals.