BI arrests Korean fugitive behind multi-million telecom scam hiding in Pampanga

PAMPANGA–In line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen border security and ensure that the Philippines does not become a refuge for fugitives, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested a South Korean national wanted by authorities in his home country for his alleged role in a sophisticated telecommunications fraud scheme that victimized multiple individuals.

Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado identified the fugitive as 44-year-old Park Junhyeon, who was arrested by agents of the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) on the evening of June 28 along MacArthur Highway in Barangay Balibago, Angeles City, Pampanga.

The operation was conducted in coordination with South Korean authorities, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-National Capital Region (CIDG-NCR), and the Department of Justice.

Park is the subject of an Interpol Red Notice issued on May 7, 2026 following a warrant of arrest released by the Busan District Court in South Korea for fraud.

According to Korean authorities, Park allegedly operated a fraudulent “no-show” scam with several accomplices, posing as a businessman who promised to reimburse victims for goods purchased on his behalf. Investigators said the scheme deceived seven victims through 24 fraudulent transactions, resulting in losses amounting to approximately KRW 170 million.

“This arrest sends a clear message to foreign fugitives: the Philippines will never be a sanctuary for criminals fleeing justice,” said Viado. “Individuals who prey on innocent victims through deception and organized fraud have no place in our country. We will continue working closely with our international law enforcement partners to track them down and ensure they are held accountable.”

BI records showed that Park last entered the Philippines on December 12, 2025 as a temporary visitor. He has since overstayed after his authorized stay expired on June 9, 2026.

The Bureau also disclosed that Park’s passport had earlier come into the custody of its Angeles Field Office after a representative filed an application to extend his stay. Authorities noted that Park did not personally appear during the processing of the application.

The BI confirmed that Park had already been placed on its watchlist as an undesirable alien due to his status as a fugitive from justice.

He is currently undergoing booking and documentation procedures before being transferred to the Bureau of Immigration Warden Facility, where he will remain while awaiting deportation proceedings.