The third largest telecommunications operator in the Philippines, DITO Telecommunity, recently responded to allegations of "illegal employment of foreigners," emphasizing that the company has not employed undocumented foreign personnel.
In a statement, DITO pointed out that the 39 foreigners taken away by the Bureau of Immigration were technical support engineers dispatched by the company's recognized business partners, holding legal visas and work permits, and their activities in the Philippines were completely compliant.
Event Background: Raid inspection draws attention
On May 29, 2025, the intelligence group of the Philippine Bureau of Immigration conducted a surprise inspection at DITO's headquarters in Taguig City, taking away 39 foreigners for further identity and visa verification. This action attracted public attention, especially due to DITO's relationship with Chinese capital, which quickly escalated the situation.
DITO Official Response: Cooperation model legal, visa procedures complete
DITO emphasized in the statement that these foreign nationals are not company employees but professional technical service personnel assigned by the company's business partners, under valid contracts, to provide technical support services for DITO's 5G standalone network project. The company stated that such arrangements are common practice in global telecommunications infrastructure projects, and all personnel legally hold valid visas and work permits, with their activities in the Philippines having a legal basis.
Government department intervenes in the investigation
The Philippine Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has launched an investigation into DITO, focusing on the visa and work permit issues of its foreign employees. DITO stated that it welcomes the government's investigation and will fully cooperate to demonstrate the legality and compliance of its employment practices.
Sensitive Background: DITO's relationship with Chinese capital raises alarms
DITO Telecommunity was established as a joint venture between Filipino entrepreneur Dennis Uy and the Chinese state-owned telecom giant China Telecom, which holds a 40% stake.
In the context of the current tense political relations between China and the Philippines, DITO's foreign employment model is under increased scrutiny.
Conclusion
DITO emphasizes that the company operates on principles of transparency, compliance, and close cooperation with the government. In this incident, DITO firmly believes that after the investigation, the Bureau of Immigration will confirm the legal status and purpose of these foreign technical personnel in the Philippines.
