Following the escape of a high-profile Korean fugitive, Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado ordered the immediate termination of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) personnel involved in the incident.
Viado emphasized that the incident was a "direct and undeniable" breach of duty, stressing that there would be no excuses or shifting of blame, and that everyone involved would be held accountable.
"We will not tolerate negligence, corruption, or collusion within our ranks," Viado firmly stated.
The BI chief further vowed to intensify efforts against rogue immigration officers, warning that anyone found involved in the investigation will face serious repercussions.
He also highlighted that the incident serves as a turning point for the bureau, making it clear that past wrongdoings will no longer be tolerated, and anyone thinking they can escape accountability should rethink their stance.
"We will expose, punish, and remove anyone who betrays the trust of this institution and the Filipino people,” said Viado.
Moreover, Viado mandated an internal audit of all personnel involved in high-risk deportation and detention cases, ensuring that necessary safeguards are established to prevent future violations.
"The days illicit deals and under-the-table transactions in the Bureau are numbered. We are cleaning house—and this is just the beginning,” he added.
Personnel involved in the escape of the foreign national could face both administrative and criminal charges for negligence in the custody of a prisoner.
Meanwhile, Viado vowed that the agency would undergo more reforms, assuring full cooperation with the Senate and law enforcement agencies to bring all those involved to justice.
The Commissioner recently launched a manhunt for the South Korean national facing fraud charges, who escaped authorities during his court hearing.
