Three Chinese nationals allegedly involved in online scamming and money laundering were arrested during a raid in Angeles City, Pampanga, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) said.
The operation was carried out on April 27, 2026, at a residential property in Pulu Amsic by operatives from the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit, in coordination with the National Bureau of Investigation–Organized and Transnational Crimes Division.
The suspects were identified as Zhang Zheng, 42; Ren Yi, 28; and Zhang Shengjun, 31, who were reportedly caught in the act.
According to the BI, the raid stemmed from intelligence reports linking the group to so-called “breakaway” scam hubs—networks formed by individuals formerly associated with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) who have resumed illegal operations in residential areas to evade detection.
Initial verification showed that one suspect holds permanent resident status, another has a valid work visa, while the third was found to have an expired visa. However, none were able to present passports or valid immigration documents at the time of arrest.
The suspects are currently detained at the BI Warden Facility and are undergoing deportation proceedings.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the agency will continue to intensify efforts against foreign nationals involved in criminal activities.
“We will not allow the Philippines to be used as a safe haven for criminal syndicates,” Viado said. “These individuals exploit our hospitality while engaging in fraudulent schemes that victimize people across borders.”
He added that operations against such groups will continue, with authorities pursuing the arrest, deportation, and blacklisting of violators.