MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) intercepted two Chinese nationals at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 for attempting to leave the country using fake emigration exit clearances (ECC).

The interception took place on June 20 as Yu Ziming, 32, and Wu Liping, 30, were about to board a Cathay Pacific flight to Hong Kong. According to the BI, the two were flagged by officers from the Immigration Protection and Border Enforcement Section (I-PROBES) after presenting spurious ECC documents.

An ECC is a mandatory document for foreign nationals who have been employed in the Philippines and are planning to permanently exit the country.

Initial investigation revealed that both individuals previously worked for Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) companies, which have been under increased scrutiny amid the government’s ongoing efforts to eliminate illegal POGO operations.

Following their interception, the two were turned over to the BI Legal Division for the filing of appropriate immigration charges. They have since been transferred to the Bureau’s Warden Facility, where they will remain while facing deportation proceedings.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to enforcing immigration laws and preventing fraudulent activities.

“Let this be a warning to those attempting to circumvent immigration laws through fake documents. We will continue weeding out fraud and upholding the integrity of our borders,” Viado said, adding that the BI remains fully supportive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to dismantle illegal POGO operations in the country.