The Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested 14 South Korean nationals in Angeles City for allegedly engaging in unauthorized work, Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado announced on July 12, 2026.
Operation Details
Viado said the operation was carried out by operatives of the BI Intelligence Division’s Special Response Team (ID-SRT). The arrests followed intelligence reports that the foreign nationals were working illegally at a condominium complex in Barangay Pampang.
Upon arrival, BI operatives found the 14 individuals allegedly operating a suspected illegal back-office facility. They were subjected to immigration verification and documentation after authorities found indications of employment without proper authorization.
Legal Proceedings
The suspects were brought to the BI main office for booking, biometric registration, records verification, and the filing of appropriate immigration charges. Viado added that the bureau is determining the full extent of the suspects' operation and possible violations of Philippine immigration laws.
The BI chief stated that they are monitoring clandestine back-office operations, which may be linked to other unlawful activities.
