DOJ Calls for Evidence Against BI Commissioner Viado
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has strongly urged critics to present concrete evidence regarding allegations against Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado. DOJ Assistant Secretary Jose Dominic F. Clavano IV emphasized that the DOJ relies strictly on evidence-based investigations.
“Dito sa Department of Justice (Here at the DOJ), we have always been and will always be evidence-based,” Clavano told reporters. He added, “Lumutang na sana ‘yung nagcomplain dahil ito naman ay isang safe space para sa kanila (We hope that those who have complaints will come forward because this is a safe space for them).”
Safe Space for Complaints and Investigations
Clavano explained that the DOJ is the proper venue for resolving administrative cases against BI officers. “Tina-try ‘yung mga admin cases ng mga BI officers (We try the administrative cases against BI officers) here at the DOJ,” he said.
These remarks come amid the circulation of an alleged “white paper” accusing Commissioner Viado of corruption, particularly favoring individuals linked with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO). The document, reportedly from anonymous BI staff, has even reached Malacañang, sources said.
DOJ Dismisses Allegations Without Evidence
Despite the allegations, Clavano pointed out that without verifiable proof, the so-called “white paper” amounts to nothing more than “fake news.” He insisted, “So, kung meron silang ebidens’ya we would love to see them. Kung may supporting documents din sila, we would love to see them (If they have evidence or supporting documents, we want to see them).”
He stressed the importance of clear and substantial evidence before action can be taken. “Pero sa ngayon, kung white paper lang ‘yan (But at the moment, if it’s just a white paper), how can we act on something that is obscure, that is vague,” Clavano added. He warned that entertaining every vague complaint would waste valuable time. “Kung papatulan natin lahat ng ganyang klaseng reklamo mauubos talaga ang oras natin (If we take all those complaints seriously, we will really waste our time),” he said.
Commissioner Viado’s Position Remains Under Scrutiny
For now, the DOJ awaits credible evidence from complainants to proceed with any investigation. The department continues to uphold transparency and accountability within the BI while providing a safe space for whistleblowers to come forward.
For more news and updates on Bureau of Immigration Commissioner Viado, visit Filipinokami.com.