The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced it is processing the deportation of nine foreign nationals who were arrested at Mactan-Cebu International Airport for carrying over ₱440 million in undeclared cash.
Immigration spokesperson Dana Sandoval confirmed that deportation proceedings are underway. The individuals, which include six Chinese nationals and others from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Kazakhstan, were intercepted along with two Filipinos as they attempted to board a private flight to Manila late at night.
Authorities found the group carrying seven bags filled with cash, far exceeding the three bags they declared. The total haul included ₱441.9 million in Philippine currency, USD$168,730 (about ₱9.3 million), and HKD$1,000 (roughly ₱71,000).
In addition to deportation, the group may face criminal charges and violations under the Anti-Money Laundering Act.
Immigration Commissioner Joel Viado stated that the individuals will be expelled and permanently banned from re-entering the country after their legal cases are resolved. “Foreign nationals are prohibited from activities that endanger national security,” he said.