BI nabs 49 aliens in Sarangani factory

Bureau of Immigration (BI) operatives recently arrested 49 foreign laborers inside the factory of a steel company in Maasim town, Sarangani province, for alleged misrepresentation.

BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said the foreigners -- all Chinese nationals -- have work permits as skilled workers.

However, BI’s surveillance operations showed that the workers were performing manual labor, which is banned under immigration laws. This is to protect the interest of local workers.

“These aliens presented themselves as skilled servicemen, but actually doing manual labor,” Morente said.

The BI conducted a raid at the factory in coordination with the local police and elements of the Armed Forces a er concerned residents complained of losing their jobs to the foreigners.