2 Koreans operating restaurant without work visas arrested in Angeles — BI Northern Luzon raid, deportation proceedings underway

📌 During immigration raids against illegal stay and unauthorized work conducted by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) in Northern and Central Luzon on July 30–31, two South Korean men, aged 51 and 49, who were running a restaurant in Angeles City were arrested.
They lacked the necessary visas and work permits to operate a restaurant and failed to present valid immigration documents, so they were transferred to the BI main office in Manila to begin deportation proceedings.

■ Incident Details
· On July 30–31 (Thursday–Friday), the BI Intelligence Division conducted intelligence-based operations in Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, Zambales, and Pampanga, arresting 5 foreign nationals
· In Angeles City, two South Koreans were caught red-handed managing and operating a restaurant
· They lacked proper visas and work authorization, and failed to present valid immigration documents during the raid
· The other 3 individuals include 2 Indian nationals (in Cabanatuan and Balagtas, overstaying) and 1 Chinese national (in Subic, overstaying)
· The BI announced the results on August 10

■ Current Status
· All 5 individuals were transferred to the BI main office in Manila for processing and deportation proceedings
· The BI Commissioner stated, "We will track down and deport all foreign nationals who overstay, work without permits, or conceal their identities," adding that nationwide crackdowns will continue

■ Similar Raid — July in Pampang, Angeles
· Reported on July 13: BI Fugitive Search Unit arrested 14 South Koreans in a condominium in Pampang, Angeles, for operating an illegal back office (charged with unauthorized employment)

■ Notice for Expats and Travelers
· To 'directly run' a restaurant or shop, or to work at a store, a tourist visa is not sufficient; you need a proper visa and a Department of Labor and Employment Alien Employment Permit (AEP), among other permits. This applies even if you are an investor or business owner.
· During a raid, you must be able to present your passport, visa, and permit documents immediately. If you are worried about keeping originals safe, always carry copies and photos with you.

■ Sources
BI Announcement (8/10), Daily Tribune (8/10), Police Files Tonite (8/10), PNA & Journal (verified via search) / 14-person raid: SunStar & The Manila Times (7/13)