The Bureau of Immigration and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) of the Philippines recently raided the well-known high-rise residential building, Cleveland Tower, in Makati, sealing off 4 rooms and detaining several individuals suspected of illegal activities. According to sources at the scene, during the operation, a shocking "price tag" was revealed—freedom could be bought for 3 million pesos that very night, causing public uproar.
This sudden raid was conducted without prior notice, with law enforcement officers breaking in directly. The apartment is located near the upscale residential area "Seaview" and was once considered a gathering place for foreigners. The raid seems to have been swiftly initiated based on previously acquired intelligence.
What's more concerning is that during the operation, there were rumors of "paying for release," raising questions about whether law enforcement has been compromised and if there was any transfer of benefits. An anonymous informant stated, "Someone was told on the spot that paying 3 million pesos could solve the problem."
Currently, the identities of the detained individuals have not been disclosed, and their relatives are trying to find out their detention locations and legal process paths. This incident has once again raised concerns about the enforcement trends among the foreign community in Makati's high-rise residences.
As the Philippines intensifies its crackdown on illegal foreign nationals and the "underground gray industry," industry insiders remind relevant individuals to enhance their compliance awareness, be cautious of getting involved in law enforcement storms, and avoid high-cost risks.
