In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s intensified campaign against illegal offshore gaming operations and the use of fraudulent documents, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) intercepted two Chinese nationals attempting to leave the country using fake emigration exit clearances (ECC) at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3.
The interception took place on June 20 at the departure area, as passengers attempted to board a Cathay Pacific Flight bound for Hong Kong.
Intercepted were Yu Ziming, 32, and Wu Liping, 30, who were flagged by members of the Bureau’s Immigration Protection and Border Enforcement Section (I-PROBES) for presenting spurious ECCs.
The ECC is a requirement for foreign nationals who have been working in the Philippines and intend to leave the country permanently.
Initial investigation revealed that both individuals previously worked for Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) companies, which have been under heightened government scrutiny following the country’s POGO ban.
The two were turned over to the BI Legal Division for the filing of appropriate immigration charges. They have since been transferred to the Bureau’s Warden Facility where they will remain pending deportation proceedings.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado emphasized the BI’s commitment to detecting fraudulent schemes and stopping illegal foreign workers from escaping legal accountability.
“Let this be a warning to those attempting to circumvent immigration laws through fake documents. We will continue weeding out fraud and upholding the integrity of our borders,” said Viado. “We fully support the President’s directive to eliminate illegal POGO operations and ensure that our immigration system is not exploited by criminal elements,” he added.
