The Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines recently issued a formal appeal, encouraging the public to report "suspicious foreigners," which has caused great concern within the Chinese community. Director Joel Antonio Viado admitted that some of the investigated individuals, despite holding legal visas and even being legally married to Filipino citizens, are still reported and scrutinized for "abnormal behavior."
This initiative is part of the government's "comprehensive battle" against transnational telecommunication fraud, illegal labor, and underground economic chains. The Bureau of Immigration will collaborate with the National Fraud Prevention Center (PSPC), integrating network, financial, and data resources to establish a "national reporting mechanism" aimed at blocking criminal infiltration at the community level.
"We must mobilize the entire population to effectively identify these covert criminals," Senator Vila stated in parliament.
However, for many Chinese citizens legally residing and working in the Philippines, this "national anti-fraud" campaign has evolved into a highly tense social atmosphere. It is reported that many Chinese are reported by neighbors simply for "living a low-profile life" or "residing in Chinese communities," and subsequently face checks by immigration officers. Although their status is not illegal, they still inevitably face troubles.
According to insiders at the Immigration Bureau, the new reporting system has been piloted in some areas. Once a report is accepted, law enforcement officers will visit to verify within 24 hours, and even if no illegality is found afterwards, the government does not assume any liability for compensation or apology. "Once you are a foreigner, you automatically enter the 'high sensitivity list,'" a Chinese businessman legally operating visa services in Manila stated.
In response to this situation, the Chinese community has begun to spontaneously publish "inspection prevention guides," advising Chinese in the Philippines to:
Always carry copies of their visa, work contract, and tax documents
Avoid walking alone at night and unnecessary outings
Refuse checks and temporary job introductions from strangers
Keep a low profile and reduce social interactions
In the high-pressure environment of "national reporting," legal status is no longer an absolute guarantee. The survival logic of Chinese people in the Philippines is quietly shifting from "legal operation" to "cautious risk avoidance." How to protect one's rights within the legal framework has become a new challenge for all Chinese there.
