IN just over two weeks, three Chinese nationals were deported by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) after their arrest, a process completed in record time.
The move to fast-track deportation is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s pronouncement banning POGO operations in the country.
“This is only the beginning. The Bureau is intent on carrying out its mandate swiftly and efficiently, ensuring that violators are held accountable and deported without unnecessary delay,” the BI said in a statement.
The bureau also said that the deportation of the three Chinese is only the first batch and it is working tirelessly to ensure the swift removal of all individuals found violating the country’s immigration laws to demonstrate resolve to uphold the President’s mandate and protect the country’s interests.
The deported individuals, identified as Lyu Xun, 23; Kong Xiangrui, 26; and Wang Shangle, 25, were among 450 illegal POGO workers apprehended during a massive operation conducted by the BI on January 8. They were sent back on board an AirAsia flight to Xiamen, China afternoon of January 25.
The BI issued a strong warning to remaining illegal POGO workers still in the country. “We encourage those who are still here illegally to voluntarily surrender to authorities,” urged Viado. “Avoid the embarrassment and consequences of arrest. Cooperate now to facilitate your departure,” he added.
More deportations are set to follow in the coming weeks, as the BI intensifies its efforts to rid the country of illegal workers.
