American Convicted Sex Offender Denied Entry to Philippines
An American man with a criminal record for second-degree sex abuse of a minor was refused entry into the Philippines. Matthew Stephen Gross, 36, was intercepted at Mactan-Cebu International Airport on June 16 after arriving from Taiwan. Authorities immediately sent him back to his original port of departure.
Immigration officials emphasized the importance of protecting children from sexual predators, calling it a moral duty beyond legal obligations. Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado stated, “Protecting children from sexual predators is a moral obligation, not just a legal one, and those with history of sex crimes have no place in the Philippines.”
Immigration Rules and Public Safety
The Philippine immigration rules clearly bar individuals convicted of crimes involving moral turpitude, including sexual offenses, from entering the country. These measures aim to safeguard public interest and prevent threats to community safety. Local authorities noted that people like Gross pose significant risks, which justifies the strict enforcement of these policies.
This incident highlights the country’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment, especially for vulnerable groups such as minors. The swift action to deport the convicted offender reflects the government’s zero-tolerance stance on sex crimes.
For more news and updates on immigration enforcement, visit Filipinokami.com.