Authorities have arrested two foreigners in separate immigration enforcement operations in Zamboanga Peninsula on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.

The operations conducted by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) with support from the 102nd Infantry Brigade of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division (1ID) were based on BI mission orders.

1ID said a Chinese national identified as “Peter Chen” was arrested in Aurora, Zamboanga del Sur.

Based on initial records, the suspect was admitted to the Philippines under a 9G pre-arranged employment visa.

However, authorities said he allegedly engaged in business activities beyond the scope of his authorized employment, which is a violation of immigration regulations.

BI also identified two other Chinese nationals as persons of interest in relation to separate immigration and documentary irregularities, but they were not present during the operation.

Authorities are still verifying how they acquired a Philippine birth certificate and passport, which are reportedly linked to travel, property, and business transactions. The matter is being validated and may lead to appropriate administrative action.

In Buug, Zamboanga Sibugay, BI operatives arrested another foreigner identified as “Kent Sy,” after he was allegedly found operating and managing a business while holding only a tourist visa, based on verification.

“Based on initial findings, the apprehended foreign nationals are being processed for alleged violations of Section 37(a)(7) (misrepresentation) and Section 45(f) (fraud) of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, as amended. They are currently under BI custody pending appropriate administrative proceedings, with full observance of due process and existing laws,” 1ID said.

“The Armed Forces of the Philippines, through the 1st Infantry Division, remains steadfast in supporting lawful processes that protect our national security and the integrity of our laws. We respect the authority of our civilian counterparts and trust that this matter will be resolved based on facts, evidence, and due process,” 1ID Commander, Major General Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr., added.