MANILA, Philippines - Three foreign commercial models were fined P30,000 each for working in the country without the proper work permits, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported Monday.
Arrested on the strength of a mission order issued by BI Commissioner Marcelino Libanan were Samuel James Anderson, 26, an American; Claudio Andres Sisa Izaguirre, 25, an Argentinian; and Bernardo Esteban Arriagada Belmar, 22, a Chilean.
The three were apprehended on May 30 for performing as ramp models in a fashion show held at the SMX convention center of the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City. They were subsequently released after paying the fine.
Libanan, however, warned them that a repetition of their offense could lead to their summary deportation and inclusion in the immigration blacklist.
At the same time, Libanan urged other foreign entertainers who are engaged or are about to engage in gainful activity in the Philippines to secure the required work permits and visas.
It was gathered that all three foreigners were fined for violating the conditions of their stay as tourists and that one of them was already overstaying. - GMANews.TV