Royina Garma Detention Updates in US Immigration Facility
Before the House quad-committee ends its probe in the 19th Congress, it shared the latest update on one of its most notable witnesses—Royina Garma. The former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) general manager and retired police colonel remains detained at a US immigration facility. This information was confirmed by a Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) official during the June 9 hearing.
DFA Passport Division Assistant Director Charlie Florian Prenicolas reported that Garma is held at the South Louisiana Immigration and Customs Enforcement Processing Center. He added that detainees there cannot receive phone calls due to US regulations. “This is confirmed based on the latest information from our Philippine Consulate General in Houston,” Prenicolas stated.
Consulate Efforts and Legal Status
The DFA official also explained that the Philippine consulate in Houston has contacted US immigration authorities on Garma’s behalf. They provided their contact details to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) with a request to relay the information to Garma. Prenicolas assured the committee that the consulate was told this contact information was passed on to her. However, Garma has not yet reached out to the consulate.
When asked about the reason for Garma’s detention, Prenicolas said she was issued an expedited removal order upon arriving in San Francisco late last year. This order is currently under appeal. He also mentioned Garma’s scheduled court appearance in Louisiana in December 2024.
House Quad-Committee’s Final Hearing
The June 9 hearing marked the 15th and final session of the quad-committee led by Surigao del Norte 2nd district Representative Robert Ace Barbers in this Congress. Garma’s testimony had been among the most impactful during the investigation.
Back in October 2024, Garma accused former President Rodrigo Duterte of leading a cash reward system that allegedly encouraged police killings of drug suspects. This claim stood out as the most significant revelation in the hearings. Duterte is currently facing trial for crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court in The Hague.
During the hearings, Garma’s rumored romantic relationship with Duterte also gained attention, sparking further discussion.
For more news and updates on Royina Garma detention updates, visit Filipinokami.com.