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.
BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval said 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.
Sandoval said 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.
