Manila: The Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported the recent interception of a Filipino man who was allegedly recruited through illegal channels to work in Russia. In a statement, Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado disclosed that the passenger, identified only as alias 'John,' 46, was prevented from departing for Hong Kong on June 20 at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) after immigration officers found inconsistencies in his travel documents and declarations.
According to Philippines News Agency, the initial inspection revealed that the passenger claimed to be a tourist traveling to Hong Kong for a five-day vacation sponsored by a friend. However, authorities discovered that Hong Kong was merely a transit point and his actual destination was Moscow, Russia. He had allegedly been recruited through Facebook and WhatsApp by individuals claiming to represent a staffing agency, who reportedly promised him a monthly salary of USD2,700 and the possibility of obtaining Russian citizenship.
The passenger was unable to present the necessary employment documents, overseas employment clearances, or proof of undergoing the legal deployment process required for overseas workers. This interception highlights ongoing concerns over the deployment of Filipinos to work abroad through unauthorized channels, in light of the recent repatriation of 24 overseas Filipino workers from Russia.
In a related development, five foreigners were arrested during a recent operation targeting a suspected online scam hub in Para±aque City. Viado stated that Chinese national Tang Shun, Malaysian Chia Kong Loon, and Burmese nationals Kum Htoi, Myo Oo, and Kyaw Tint Lwin were arrested on June 17 at a condominium complex in Sapphire Seaview Park, Para±aque City. This operation followed intelligence reports linking the location to an alleged "love scam" operation that reportedly victimized individuals through online deception and cryptocurrency-related schemes.
According to intelligence information received by the bureau, the location was allegedly used for fraudulent online activities. Reports indicated that some workers connected to the operation were being restricted from leaving the premises freely, prompting further investigation.
