BI nabs overstaying Chinese in Makati

MANILA – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has arrested a Chinese national who has been wanted for overstaying and illegally working in the country.

BI Intelligence Chief Fortunato Manahan Jr. reported to Commissioner Norman Tansingco that 30-year-old Zheng Zongyi was arrested outside his workplace at the central business district in Makati City last May 10.

He said the foreigner has been on the BI's wanted list since 2021 when it was found that he never departed since he last arrived in the country on Nov. 22, 2019.

"Investigation also revealed that Zheng violated the conditions of his stay as a tourist for engaging in gainful employment here without bothering to apply for a work permit and visa," the BI official added in a statement on Tuesday.

Tansingco immediately ordered the conduct of deportation proceedings against the foreign national whom he described as undesirable for blatantly violating Philippine immigration laws.

"Aliens who deliberately violate our laws do not deserve the privilege to stay in our country. They should be sent out and perpetually banned from coming here again," the BI chief said.

Zheng is now detained at the BI warden facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City pending deportation proceedings. (PNA)