BI Strikes Down Suspected Scam Hub in Pampanga, Arrests Korean National and Fugitives

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado

BI Strikes Down Suspected Scam Hub in Pampanga, Arrests Korean National and Fugitives

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | March 6, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has successfully dismantled another suspected foreign-led scamming operation in Angeles City, Pampanga, leading to the arrest of a Korean national alleged to be involved in its management, along with several other individuals, some of whom are fugitives from justice.

This latest enforcement action underscores the BI’s intensified efforts to eradicate illegal syndicates exploiting Philippine territory for criminal activities.

On the afternoon of February 25, the BI’s Intelligence Division–Special Response Team (ID-SRT) conducted a meticulously planned raid, stemming from validated intelligence information.

The operation centered on the alleged involvement of 33-year-old Korean national Yu Jaemin in a sophisticated scam hub primarily targeting fellow Korean nationals, with potential wider implications for other foreign victims.

Surveillance of the target area observed Yu Jaemin departing his residence and proceeding to an office located along Poinsettia Street in Angeles City. Upon entry into the premises, BI operatives discovered a highly organized setup consistent with reported scamming operations.

Eleven other Korean nationals were found actively engaged at individual workstations, manning operational equipment and performing digital activities.

Immediate verification of identities and immigration statuses revealed alarming findings. Three of the foreign nationals were identified as fugitives from justice, possessing existing derogatory records. Additionally, several others were found to be overstaying, a clear violation of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, as amended.

All individuals encountered were actively engaged in work-related activities at the time of the enforcement.

The operation was conducted with proper coordination and assistance from both the Philippine National Police (PNP) Pampanga and PNP Angeles City, ensuring the legitimacy and orderly execution of the raid.

During the enforcement, a notable incident occurred when another Korean national arrived at the premises, claiming to be the lessor or manager of the property.

This individual attempted to interfere with the operation, falsely asserting that he was an envoy from Korean authorities. However, a swift verification conducted by the BI with the Korean government unequivocally confirmed that no such representation had been made.

All apprehended individuals were subsequently transported to Manila for booking and documentation. They are currently detained at the BI Warden’s facility, awaiting the commencement of their respective deportation cases.

Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado affirmed the agency’s unwavering commitment to dismantling foreign-led scam hubs. He announced that a thorough investigation will be launched into the background of the Korean man who attempted to obstruct the operation, particularly focusing on his potential connections to the illegal activities uncovered at the site.

“We will not allow organized fraud syndicates to exploit our communities and use Philippine territory as a base for criminal operations,” Commissioner Viado stated emphatically. “Our intelligence and enforcement units will continue to act decisively, in full coordination with law enforcement partners, to ensure that foreign nationals who violate our laws are arrested and removed.”

This successful operation serves as a strong warning to foreign nationals attempting to engage in illegal activities within the Philippines, highlighting the BI’s vigilance and resolve in maintaining national security and upholding immigration laws.