China on Monday voiced its concerns in regard to the arrest of more than 1,000 Chinese citizens by the Philippine government. The suspects were arrested after they were allegedly found engaging in illegal online gambling.

 In a CCTV report, Geng Shuang, the Spokesperson for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said that they would continue to pay attention to the ongoing case.

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"China has requested the Philippines," said Shuang. "They should make proper arrangements with those who are currently in holding."

He said that the state had been lenient to some of the arrested Chinese citizens and released them while the investigations continued.

"Accelerate identity, release those with legal identities as soon as possible and guarantee the safe, humanitarian treatment of the detainees," Shuang added.

A report by the Filipino Times revealed that the culprits were arrested on Friday after they were caught in the act in Pampanga province in Central Luzon.

The Head of the Immigration Bureau Jaime Morente said that the individuals were arrested after a confirmed suspicion of illegal activities that were ongoing at the Fontana Hotel and Resort.

Morente further added that as of early Friday morning, his unit has already arrested and detained more than 1,200 Chinese citizens.

Meanwhile, Shuang noted that the Chinese state is expecting its citizens who travel abroad to work in accordance with the country's law. While still on the matter, he added that the Philippines should be fair in handling the case. 

Tagschina, Philippines, China ministry of foreign affairs, Illegal Online Gambling