MANILA — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced the arrest of two American nationals for overstaying in the Philippines during separate operations in Pangasinan and Zambales.

The suspects were identified as Matt Nickolas Mathews, 70, apprehended in Barangay Asin West, Malasiqui, Pangasinan, and Barry Allan Brumfield, 57, arrested in Kalaklan, Olongapo City, Zambales.

Mathews was arrested on October 7 by operatives from the BI Regional Intelligence Operations Unit 1 (RIOU-1), with assistance from the Pangasinan Provincial Police Office and Malasiqui Municipal Police Station. He had overstayed since 2014 and admitted not renewing his visa. During verification, Mathews reportedly became unruly and hurled expletives at immigration officers, prompting his immediate arrest under Section 37(a)(7) of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940 for overstaying.

Brumfield was apprehended on October 6 by BI RIOU-3 operatives in coordination with the Philippine Navy and Olongapo City Police. He failed to present a valid passport or immigration document and was likewise charged under the same provision of the Philippine Immigration Act for overstaying and being undocumented.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado commended the successful operations and reminded foreign nationals to comply with Philippine laws. “We welcome visitors and expatriates who come here for legitimate reasons. However, those who overstay or disregard the limits of their stay must understand that the Philippines upholds its immigration laws strictly. Respect for our laws is the same respect we extend to every guest in our country,” he said.

Both Mathews and Brumfield are currently undergoing deportation proceedings and will be blacklisted to prevent re-entry. Viado emphasized that the BI will continue nationwide enforcement to protect the integrity of the country’s borders.