The Philippines on Wednesday formally turned over to Chinese authorities a former Chinese government official who was wanted for corruption.
Philippines Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said that Xie Haojie, 49, was arrested Sunday in a condominium in Manila after hiding in the Philippines for nearly 10 months.
The former Chinese official was also present at the press conference. He is expected to face charges of embezzling public funds and taking bribes amounting to 210 million dollars in his capacity as a general manager of a state-owned enterprise.
China's ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua, who attended the press conference, said the arrest "clearly demonstrates the determination of both sides in cementing an anti-corruption campaign."
Morente said Xie would be immediately deported back to Beijing. He said that Chinese authorities coordinated with Philippine immigration and the anti-corruption agency to track him down.
"The Philippines and China will continue to strengthen our cooperation in going after Chinese fugitives hiding in our country, including former government officials wanted for corruption," Morente said.
Chinese fugitive Xie Haojie presented in a press conference by Philippine authorities following his arrest. Picture courtesy: Faye Orellana/Inquirer.net
