COTABATO CITY, Philippines – Immigration agents, backed by the Philippine Army, arrested nine Chinese nationals — including one from Hong Kong — working at a mining site in Barangay Chua, Bagumbayan town, Sultan Kudarat, without work permits.
The operation was carried out last week by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and soldiers from the Army’s 7th Infantry Battalion, under the 603rd Infantry Brigade. Authorities confirmed the arrests only on Sunday, April 20, after initial investigations were completed.
Without Work Permits
Brigadier General Michael Santos, commander of the 603rd Infantry Brigade, said the foreigners possessed valid passports but failed to present work permits — a violation of the Philippine Immigration Act.
“We held off from publicizing the arrest to give the BI time to verify their identities and determine how they were hired,” Santos told reporters.
The Chinese nationals were reportedly employed by Helen Grace S. Camsa Precious Metal Mining Company, which is currently exploring copper and gold deposits in the upland areas of Bagumbayan.
Lt. Col. Tristan Rey Vallescas, commander of the 7th Infantry Battalion, led the military side of the joint operation. After their arrest, the Chinese workers were turned over to immigration authorities.
The Bureau of Immigration has since taken custody of the foreign nationals while further investigations are underway.
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