Two Japanese fugitives deported from the Philippines amid security crackdown
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced on Friday, October 17, the deportation of two Japanese fugitives who had been living in the Philippines. The two men, identified by BI Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado, are Takuya Hoshino, 24, and Kunio Aihara, 62. They boarded a flight to Tokyo on October 16, as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to remove foreign fugitives who evade justice.
Who were the deported fugitives?
Hoshino was apprehended in Las Piñas City by operatives from the BI-Fugitive Search Unit (BI-FSU) on April 22 after the Japanese government labeled him a fugitive. The BI described him as reportedly being a member of the notorious “Luffy” gang in Japan. He is accused of stealing ATM cards and targeting elderly victims by impersonating law enforcement officers—a pattern that has prompted significant concern among authorities in both countries.
Aihara was arrested in Las Piñas City on June 3 following a Japanese government report that he is wanted in Tokyo for robbery resulting in injury, in violation of the Japanese Penal Code. The BI stated that his deportation adds him to the growing list of individuals who are not allowed to reenter the Philippines after being deported or blacklisted by the BI.
What this means for immigration policy
The deportations underscore the Philippines’ commitment to the President’s directive to rid the country of foreign fugitives. BI Commissioner Viado emphasized ongoing cooperation with international partners to ensure the Philippines does not become a haven for criminals seeking to dodge justice abroad.
Officials said the two men were added to the BI’s blacklist, preventing any future attempts to reenter the country. The blacklist is part of a broader immigration strategy designed to screen, detain, and remove individuals who pose security, criminal, or public safety concerns.
Security and international cooperation
Biometric data and prior international alerts were key elements in locating Hoshino and Aihara, according to BI statements. The case highlights the growing importance of cross-border information-sharing and joint law enforcement actions in Southeast Asia and the Asia-Pacific region.
Public impact and regional context
Crackdowns on foreign fugitives are watched closely by Philippine authorities and the international community, especially in light of regional concerns about crime and safety. While deportations can be contentious for individuals and families affected by immigration policies, supporters say they are essential to maintaining lawful entry and protecting citizens.
In recent years, the BI has increased its collaboration with foreign governments, including Japan, to track fugitives and ensure swift repatriation when warranted. The latest actions against Hoshino and Aihara align with these efforts and demonstrate a sustained prioritization of public safety and sovereignty over immigration standards.
Official statements
Viado reaffirmed the bureau’s resolve: the Philippines will not serve as a refuge for criminals who evade justice. He noted that the BI will continue to work with international counterparts to enforce laws and uphold national security while respecting due process for those involved.
As these fugitives return to Japan, authorities in both countries may review future cooperation and case management to prevent similar threats and to improve mechanisms for early alert and rapid removal when needed.
