Senator Calls for Inquiry into Bureau of Immigration Corruption
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian is urging a thorough investigation into corruption and misconduct allegations within the Bureau of Immigration (BI) leadership. He highlighted the urgent need to tighten the enforcement of the country’s anti-Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGO) policy, especially regarding how POGO deportations are handled.
“The improper implementation of the country’s anti-POGO policy concerning the detention and deportation of foreign nationals involved in POGOs may create loopholes in our anti-POGO framework and allow nefarious POGO actors to continue their operations,” Gatchalian said as he prepared to file Senate Resolution No. 1381. The senator has long advocated for the ban of POGO operations in the country and stressed that mishandling deportations could let foreign nationals escape accountability.
Concerns Raised by Bureau of Immigration Employees
Recently, anonymous BI employees sent a letter to the President accusing top agency officials of exceeding their authority by fast-tracking bail for foreign nationals connected to POGOs, including influential figures in the industry. These employees also warned about a new corrupt practice involving the auctioning of permanent quota visas to the highest bidders.
“Kailangan nating ituwid ang katiwalian sa ahensyang inaasahang nagpapatupad ng batas at punan ang pagkukulang sa ating mga regulasyon,” Gatchalian emphasized. He stressed the need to correct corruption within the agency responsible for law enforcement and to close gaps in current regulations.
Closing Loopholes in Anti-POGO Enforcement
Gatchalian’s push for inquiry aims to address these serious claims and strengthen the government’s stance against illegal offshore gaming operations. By ensuring stricter deportation procedures and transparency, the senator believes the country can better uphold its laws and protect its citizens from the negative impacts of rogue POGO activities.
For more news and updates on Philippine offshore gaming operations, visit Filipinokami.com.