HOMONHON ISLAND, Eastern Samar—Thirteen Chinese nationals were apprehended by Bureau of Immigration (BI) operatives on October 30 for illegally working in mining sites on Homonhon Island in Guiuan, Eastern Samar.
The arrests followed a coordinated operation by BI’s Intelligence Division (ID) in coordination with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
According to BI-ID Chief Fortunato Manahan, Jr., the foreign workers were discovered on two separate mining sites on the island.
Reports show that 11 of the arrested individuals held working visas but were found working for a different company, a violation of their visa conditions. One individual held a retiree’s visa, while another was identified as an overstaying alien.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado underscored the need to enforce immigration laws in these areas. “Illegal employment undermines local laws and communities. We are committed to monitoring and addressing cases like these to protect our borders and environment,” said Viado. “The recent operation on Homonhon Island highlights our close coordination with national agencies to ensure compliance with our regulations,” he added.
Physical custody of the arrested individuals shall remain with the PAOCC, while the BI initiates a deportation case against them.
It can be recalled that earlier this year, residents of the island voiced concerns over the environmental impact of the mining operations in the area.
Homonhon Island holds historical significance as the site where Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan first landed in the Philippines.
