A job seeker lost his passport after it was confiscated by someone he trusted. Instead of helping him find a job, he was asked for P60,000 just to get his passport back. This happened in Parañaque City and was reported to the CIDG.
According to the report, a Chinese and a Filipino were involved in the scam. The victim said he gave his passport for a job application. But a few days later, when he followed up, he received no response and was charged a ransom of P60,000. He was even threatened with deportation if he did not pay.
On May 21, 2025, the police conducted an entrapment operation. Just as the victim was about to hand over the ransom, undercover cops arrived and arrested the two suspects. They were identified as Xing Tao, a Chinese, and Basmer, a Filipino.
The Filipino denied knowing what was happening. According to Xing Tao, the victim owed him money so it was not extortion. However, the CIDG believes that this is not the first time the suspects have done this and it is possible that they have other victims.
Warning to Chinese in the Philippines: Take care of your passport. It should not be used as a tool of intimidation. If you have also experienced this incident, immediately go to the police or call the CIDG for the protection of your rights.
