Philippines Deports Chinese Nationals Linked to Illegal Offshore Gaming and Mining

The Philippine government has deported 91 Chinese nationals implicated in illegal offshore gaming and mining operations following coordinated efforts across multiple agencies. On 19 September, these individuals were transported on Philippine Airlines flight PR336 to Shanghai, marking a significant step in the country’s ongoing campaign against organized crime.

The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), the Bureau of Immigration (BI), and the Chinese Embassy coordinated the operation. According to PAOCC, a total of 103 individuals were approved for deportation due to involvement in unauthorized Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGO), fraudulent activities, and illicit mining practices. While 91 individuals departed on the scheduled flight, 12 others remain detained pending further directives from the Bureau of Immigration.

Authorities detailed that 89 deportees participated in unlawful online gaming schemes, and two were connected to illegal mining. The suspects were detained following joint operations across various locations, including Pasay, Parañaque, Laguna, Cebu, Pampanga, Tarlac, and mining sites in Homonhon, Eastern Samar.

Executive Secretary and PAOCC Chairman Lucas P. Bersamin emphasized that these deportations are part of sustained efforts to dismantle organized crime networks. Immigration Commissioner Joel Viado reaffirmed the government’s stance, stating that foreigners involved in illegal activities "will be dealt with accordingly."

The operation reflects the Philippine government’s commitment to enforcing laws against unauthorized gaming and mining, ensuring the integrity of its immigration system and industry regulations.