The Bureau of Immigration (BI) said seven foreigners have been deported to decongest its detention facility.

BI Warden Facility Chief Remiecar Caguiron said, “Our Legal Division has identified deportation cases that can already be expedited, as well as those who are eligible for bail.”

Two pregnant women were released on bail, he said in a statement on Thursday.

The bureau also said 84 of its foreign inmates and 75 immigration personnel tested negative for the coronavirus disease (Covid-19).

According to BI Medical Section Chief Dr. Marites Ambray, only 84 of the over 400 foreigners detained were tested due to insufficient testing kits.

The bureau prioritized people who were at a high risk of being infected, namely the elderly as well as people with underlying medical conditions. (Jojo Mangahis)