BI seeks deportation of Chinese woman in Makati scuffle

Mabulac added that the woman, identified as Dong Li, is a tourist and has yet to comply with “updating her status”. (File Photo: Bureau of Immigration, Republic of the Philippines/Facebook)

MANILA – The Chinese woman who attacked traffic enforcers in Makati City last week was recommended for deportation, a Bureau of Immigration (BI) official said Saturday.

“Immediately, our Intelligence Division headed by Fortunato Manahan, Jr. sent agents to the Makati police and was able to gather personal information. They recommended to our legal division to file a deportation case,” said Immigration acting spokesperson Melvin Mabulac in a Laging Handa briefing.

Mabulac added that the woman, identified as Dong Li, is a tourist and has yet to comply with “updating her status”.

He said they are looking at other possible cases against Li for “overstaying and undesirability”.

“It is very clear in the video that went viral on social media, for disrespecting our authorities such act is prohibited. Foreigners have no special laws, they should follow the laws of the land, just like its citizens who respect and abide by the country’s laws,” Mabulac added.

He said a case should be filed against a foreigner who violated quarantine measures by the government to help stop the spread of coronavirus disease (Covid-19).

He reiterated that foreigners should respect laws of the country or they may face cases aside from a deportation case that the BI may file against them.

“If a foreigner has been convicted, he should serve his sentence first before he will be deported. That is why we asked clearance from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) or court if a convicted foreign national was able to serve his sentence,” Mabulac added.

On Thursday, the Makati police filed complaints of physical injury, direct assault, and disobedience to persons in authority at the Makati Prosecutor’s Office against Li.

In a viral video, the woman was seen shouting at members of the Makati Public Safety Department on the corner of Makati Avenue and Jupiter Street on July 7.

She was also caught on video as she attacked the traffic personnel with an umbrella.

Earlier, Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente reminded foreigners in the country that their stay in the country is not a right but a mere privilege so they should not abuse Philippine laws and its citizens.