By Lane Afable, News Editor
Operatives of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested two foreign nationals in separate operations conducted in Isabela and in Palawan.
The operations were carried out by the BI’s Regional Intelligence Operations Units (RIOUs) in coordination with local police and other law enforcement agencies.
On May 11, BI agents arrested 38-year-old Nigerian national Joshua Esosa Osarhiemen in Cauayan City, Isabela for violation of the conditions of his stay after verification showed that he had likewise overstayed in the Philippines.
In a separate operation in Roxas, Palawan on May 12, immigration operatives apprehended 39-year-old Chinese national Xu Haishen for alleged misrepresentation as a Filipino citizen and posing a threat to public interest and national security.
Authorities said Xu admitted to using another identity during the operation and was arrested after operatives verified derogatory information against him.
The operation was conducted with assistance from multiple government intelligence and security agencies.
Both underwent booking and documentation procedures before being transferred to the BI Warden Facility pending deportation proceedings.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the operations reflect the bureau’s intensified campaign against illegal and undesirable foreign nationals.
“We are relentless in our efforts to locate, arrest, and deport foreign nationals who violate our immigration laws or attempt to deceive authorities.
“The President has made it clear that the Philippines will not serve as a sanctuary for illegal aliens, fraudsters, or individuals who threaten public order and national security,” said Viado.
Viado also warned foreigners residing in the country to strictly comply with Philippine immigration laws or face arrest and deportation.
