In response to whether the investigation of more than 100 Philippine nationals for alleged violations could be interpreted as China’s answer to the frequent detention of Chinese citizens by the Philippines, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that these individuals were dealt with for illegal employment and residence.
Guo Jiakun, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, responded to questions from reporters on Monday, stating that the national immigration management authorities are continuously deepening the governance of the "Three Illegals" (illegal entry, illegal employment, and illegal residence) among foreigners in China, and are carrying out special operations according to the law.
He pointed out that more than 100 Philippine nationals were handled in accordance with the law for illegal employment and illegal residence. During the special operation, immigration management officials enforced the law in a regulated and civilized manner and ensured the rights and interests of involved foreign individuals were protected.
In mid-May, 69 Chinese workers at a steel plant in Misamis Oriental province, Philippines, were detained by Philippine law enforcement agencies. The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines lodged a stern representation, and 64 of them were released on the night of May 28.
At the time, Chinese state media Global Times reported that in the past month, there had been at least six incidents in the Philippines involving the detention of Chinese citizens, totaling more than 150 people. The reasons cited included environmental pollution by enterprises, employees lacking valid visas, illegal retail operations, and threats to national security.
The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines reported in June that 24 Chinese workers had been detained in the Philippines for illegal employment. Upon learning of this, the embassy requested that the Philippine side handle the matter fairly.