Immigration Chief Blocks Tony Yang’s Bail Attempts
Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado revealed on June 10 that there have been multiple attempts to secure the release of Tony Yang, brother of former presidential economic adviser Michael Yang, from Bureau of Immigration (BI) custody. Viado emphasized that these efforts to release Tony Yang on bail were made without his knowledge, during a time he was absent.
“There was an attempt to get Mr. Tony Yang released on bail by virtue of a resolution which was drafted and passed during my absence,” Viado stated. He added, “This was a clear effort to slip this resolution past me. I gave strict instructions to ensure that this resolution is rescinded. It is a fact that I rejected the plea to allow Mr. Tony Yang to be released on bail. It is a fact that it was my decision is to keep him in detention while facing judicial processes here in our country.”
Rescinding Bail Resolution amid Pressure
After the resolution was rescinded, Viado disclosed that he received further requests urging him to reconsider Tony Yang’s detention. Tony Yang was arrested last year at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 by the BI and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) for being classified as an undesirable alien.
The BI previously accused Tony Yang of misrepresenting himself as a Filipino to conduct business in the country. In addition, alleged falsifications were found in the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) certification for Phil Sanjia Corporation, a company linked to Yang.
Legal Violations and Ongoing Investigations
Further, the BI reported that Tony Yang violated the Social Security Act and the Universal Healthcare Act by failing to remit contributions for Filipino employees of Sanjia Steel to government agencies such as the Social Security System (SSS), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Pag-Ibig Fund.
Moreover, the BI has investigated Tony Yang’s alleged involvement with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). These gaming operations were banned by President Marcos due to their alleged ties to criminal activities.
Firm Stance on Detention Amid Smear Campaign
Commissioner Viado remained firm, stating, “For the record, I stood by my position: Mr. Tony Yang shall remain and still remains in detention.” However, he expressed uncertainty if Tony Yang’s case is part of a smear campaign against him.
“Despite the vilification campaign now being waged against me and the BI, I will not resort to the same squid tactics,” Viado said. He also informed Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla about the incident, leaving the decision for any further action to the Justice Department.
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