BI detains 7 Chinese dredging ship crew

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) said it had taken custody of seven Chinese crew of a dredging vessel illegally operating within the country's territorial waters. Kang Yinxi, Wei Jiarui, Zhuang Chugen, Guo Yibin, Lin Zongsen, Liu Xinfu and Chen Min, all undocumented foreigners, were apprehended by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) aboard MV Sangko Uno at the Navotas Port. PCG acting spokesman Lt. Cdr. Michael John Encina said all seven only possessed tourist visas. They were transferred to the BI's facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Bicutan, awaiting deportation. "This operation sends a strong message: the Philippines is not a playground for illegal aliens. The BI, together with our partners like the Coast Guard, will continue to stand against foreign threats to our sovereignty," said BI Officer in Charge Joel Anthony Viado on Wednesday. BI Intelligence Division Chief Fortunato Manahan Jr. said the Chinese were unlawfully operating within Philippine waters without proper documentation. "These individuals were attempting to exploit our porous maritime borders. Their illegal activities have been thwarted thanks to the swift action of the PCG," he added. Viado praised the vigilance of PCG. "The PCG's tireless work in patrolling our seas ensures that foreign syndicates do not illegally enter our country," he said.