Authorities suspect criminal gang behind arrival of 300 IPs in Manila

To ensure that they are not being taken advantage of, authorities on Friday are looking into the arrival in Manila of more than 300 Badjaos that are suspected of being victims of a criminal gang.

According to a report on “State of the Nation,” the Badjaos arrived at the Manila North Port Terminal from Zamboanga City.

Aside from the sudden arrival of so many indigenous peoples, authorities were suspicious as an individual had paid for all their fares and organized their accommodations.

The Badjaos also claimed that they have a relative in Metro Manila.

They also had documents that claimed they underwent RT-PCR tests for the COVID-19.

To makes sure, however, the Badjaos were tested anew for the illness.

Authorities explained that they wanted to make sure the Badjaos were not being used by criminals as some have been abused and told to roam the streets asking for alms. — Joahna Lei Casilao/DVM, GMA News