Eight Vietnamese Nationals Detained in Parañaque for Visa Violations and Alleged Online Scams

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) apprehended eight Vietnamese citizens in Parañaque City in connection with visa violations and suspected involvement in illicit activities, including online scams targeting foreigners. BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado confirmed that among those detained is 29-year-old Nguyen Phan Gia Khuong, who was arrested on November 11, 2025, at a hotel unit.

Authorities revealed that Khuong had overstayed his permitted duration in the Philippines and was engaged in unauthorized work and activities not sanctioned under his visa. He is also suspected of taking part in online scams that defrauded foreign victims.

In the course of the operation, BI officers discovered seven additional Vietnamese nationals—six men and one woman—in the same building. Law enforcement also confiscated drug paraphernalia and several bullets from another room, which have been handed over to the relevant agencies for further probe.

Commissioner Viado emphasized that this action underscores the BI’s commitment to cracking down on foreigners exploiting the country’s hospitality. He stated, "We will not allow individuals who violate our laws or engage in illegal operations to hide in the Philippines."

Currently, Khuong and the other seven detainees remain at the BI’s detention facility as deportation proceedings continue.