5 undocumented Chinese face deportation

MANILA, Philippines — Five Chinese nationals suspected of illegally entering the country were found to be working as crewmembers of a Philippine-flagged vessel docked at the port of Navotas on Sunday.

Acting Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesman Lt. Commander Michael John Encina said the Chinese were apprehended onboard MV Sangko Uno.

The undocumented Chinese workers may face deportation, Encina said.

A Filipino-Chinese crew member was also arrested.

Encina said the foreigners failed to present passports and working permits.

“Of the five Chinese, only one was able to present his passport,” he said.

The PCG said it would ask the owner of MV Sangko Uno to explain the presence of Chinese workers on the ship.