The Bureau of Immigration (BI) deported 115 Chinese nationals arrested during two major operations against illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in Zamboanga Sibugay and Cubao, Quezon City, in October.

The group included 62 Chinese nationals arrested in Zamboanga Sibugay and 53 others apprehended in Cubao.

The deportees were flown back to China aboard a chartered China Southern Airlines flight CZ5308 at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, following the issuance of summary deportation orders by the BI Board of Commissioners.

Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado said the deportation underscored the bureau's commitment to holding foreign nationals involved in illegal activities accountable.

He added that the BI would continue strengthening its enforcement operations and coordination with local and international law enforcement agencies to combat illegal POGO operations, online scams and other transnational crimes.