Immigration Commissioner commits to Senate probe
Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthoy M. Viado announced on Sunday, June 15, that he and the Bureau of Immigration (BI) will fully cooperate with the Senate during the investigation into alleged corruptions. He emphasized the importance of this inquiry to expose and remove undesirable elements within the agency.
“We believe that the planned hearings at the Senate will help us further ferret out the undesirable elements in the agency and to sustain the momentum of our reforms,” Viado stated.
Senate investigation into alleged corruption
This statement came after Senator Sherwin Gatchalian declared that the Senate would conduct an inquiry based on a “white paper” reportedly submitted by concerned BI employees. The document accuses the commissioner of corruption and favors extended to individuals involved with Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
Viado has directed all BI officials and staff to fully participate and cooperate with the Senate investigation. He reassured them, saying, “They have nothing to fear as Senator Gatchalian has a track record of fairness and impartiality.”
Call for whistleblowers to come forward
Furthermore, Viado urged the employees who allegedly released the “white paper” to come forward openly to assist in the inquiry. He guaranteed full protection from his office to those willing to cooperate.
According to local leaders, this probe is seen as a critical step to uphold transparency and integrity within the Bureau of Immigration. It also reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen reforms and accountability amid persistent allegations.
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