PCG delists businessman Sy for citizenship misrepresentation

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) announced on Tuesday that it has delisted a businessman identified as Joseph Sy from its Auxiliary unit due to misrepresentation of his citizenship.

Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros had previously flagged the enlistment of Sy, alleging he was posing as a Filipino citizen like Alice Guo, an ousted mayor.

Captain Lejanie Dy of PCG's Civil Relations Service confirmed that verified reports indicated Sy misrepresented his citizenship, constituting a serious breach of law and trust.

Sy joined the PCGA Executive Squadron in 2018 but was not delisted earlier due to presented proof of Filipino citizenship and community standing.

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) confirmed on Monday that Chen Zhong Zhen, using Sy's identity, was arrested at Ninoy Aquino International Airport for misrepresentation.

Section 11 of Republic Act No. 9993 authorizes the PCG to organize and supervise the Auxiliary unit, which supports civic activities but does not participate in maritime operations or have access to critical installations.