Three Pakistani nationals were arrested in General Santos City for overstaying and working without proper visas, according to the Bureau of Immigration.

BI reported that the operation, conducted on March 17 by the BI Mindanao Intelligence Task Group in coordination with the Philippine Army and General Santos City Police, targeted foreign nationals violating Philippine immigration rules.

Arrested were Arslan Ali, 30, and Suleman Ali, 28, at a surplus vehicle display center along Apopong National Highway. Both were working without the proper visas.

Investigation showed Arslan Ali had overstayed nearly five years and had a pending deportation case, while Suleman Ali was on a tourist visa.

A third national, Mudassar Miraj, whose 9(g) work visa expired in February 2026, was also taken in for verification. He claimed to have a pending extension application.

All three face charges under the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, as amended, for overstaying and working illegally.

"Foreign nationals must follow our laws. Those who overstay or work illegally will be arrested, detained, and deported. We are serious about protecting our borders, labor market, and the integrity of our immigration system," BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado reiterated.