Authorities arrested 244 foreign nationals during simultaneous raids in Zamboanga Sibugay, in what the Bureau of Immigration (BI) described as the country’s “largest Pogo bust” since the government banned Philippine offshore gaming operators.
The operations were conducted Friday, October 2, in the towns of Siay and Alicia by the BI, with support from the Philippine Army’s 1st Infantry Division and other law enforcement agencies.
244 Foreign Nationals Apprehended
Authorities arrested 113 foreigners in Barangay Kimos, Siay, including 111 Chinese nationals, one Hong Kong national and two Cambodians.
Another 131 foreigners were apprehended in Barangay Tandiong Muslim in Alicia. Most were Chinese nationals, while others came from Malaysia, Indonesia and Myanmar.
The BI is verifying the identities and immigration records of those taken into custody.
The foreigners are being investigated for possible immigration violations, including working without valid visas, illegal entry and incomplete documentation. Authorities are also looking into alleged involvement in illegal online activities and possible human trafficking.
Those found to have violated Philippine immigration laws may face deportation and blacklisting, preventing them from returning to the country.
Phones, Computers, and SIM Cards Seized
The raids were carried out under mission orders enforcing Executive Order No. 74, which banned Pogos in 2024, and Republic Act No. 12312, or the Anti-Pogo Act of 2025.
At the Casa de Coco Pension House compound in Siay, authorities seized equipment allegedly used for illegal online operations and scams.
The items included 78 computer monitors, around 3,000 mobile phones, laptops, thousands of SIM cards, and other technical equipment.
The BI worked with the National Bureau of Investigation, Armed Forces of the Philippines and Zamboanga Sibugay police during the operations.
Some Foreigners Fled During Raids
Not all those targeted were immediately apprehended. A source familiar with the operation said some foreigners fled toward nearby mangrove areas and mountains, with several later surrendering on their own.
Police and military personnel remained deployed in Alicia and Siay while authorities processed the cases and completed the necessary documentation.
Western Mindanao Command acting chief Maj. Gen. Jose Vladimir Cagara said the military would continue supporting legitimate law enforcement operations against organized crime while respecting the rights and dignity of those apprehended.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado likewise said the agency would continue enforcing immigration laws and preventing the Philippines from being used as a base for illegal activities.
