By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA, Philippines — Two foreign nationals facing separate immigration and security-related violations were arrested by operatives of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) during coordinated intelligence operations in Isabela and Palawan, authorities said Thursday.
The arrests were conducted by the BI’s Regional Intelligence Operations Units in coordination with local police and partner law enforcement agencies as part of the government’s intensified campaign against illegal foreign nationals in the country.
In Cauayan City, Isabela, BI operatives arrested 38-year-old Nigerian national Joshua Esosa Osarhiemen on May 11 after authorities discovered that he had allegedly violated the conditions of his stay and overstayed in the Philippines.
Meanwhile, a separate operation in Roxas, Palawan on May 12 led to the arrest of 39-year-old Chinese national Xu Haishen, who was accused of falsely presenting himself as a Filipino citizen.
According to immigration authorities, Xu allegedly used a different identity and was apprehended after intelligence operatives verified derogatory information against him. Multiple intelligence and security agencies assisted in the operation due to concerns linked to public interest and national security.
Both foreign nationals underwent standard booking and documentation procedures before being transferred to the BI Warden Facility, where they will remain pending deportation proceedings.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the arrests demonstrate the bureau’s continuing efforts to track down foreign nationals involved in immigration violations and other unlawful activities.
“The Bureau remains firm in enforcing immigration laws and protecting the country from individuals who abuse their stay or attempt to deceive authorities,” Viado said.
He also reminded foreign nationals residing in the Philippines to comply with immigration regulations, warning that violators may face arrest, detention, and eventual deportation.
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