BI backs probe into anonymous corruption claims

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Wednesday expressed support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call to investigate allegations of corruption and misconduct against Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, detailed in an anonymous "white paper."

Viado, in a statement, said that he acknowledges and welcomes the president’s directive to look into the claim raised in the white paper, stressing he shares the same position that “transparency, fairness, and due process are essential in addressing matters of public concern.”

“We trust that an impartial and comprehensive investigation will bring clarity, establish accountability where warranted, and ultimately strengthen the public’s trust in our institutions,” Viado added.

The "white paper" complaint, dated 2 June and reportedly written by anonymous BI employees, accused Viado of intervening in favor of three Chinese nationals allegedly linked to a raided POGO hub in Parañaque City. It also claimed that Viado blocked their transfer to the BI Warden Facility in Bicutan and instead detained them in the main office of the BI.

On Tuesday, Marcos said that the Palace is looking into the allegations but noted that it is difficult to study a white paper that is unsigned and lacks specifics.

“But nonetheless, we’re looking into it and we will continue to do that,” the president said.

Viado previously dismissed the accusations as “patently false,” describing them as part of a smear campaign by a senior BI official whose request to release a certain Tony Yang was allegedly denied.

In a statement on Tuesday, he said he is leaving it to Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla to take any appropriate action.

“I will not publicly name the party concerned. It is not in my nature to publicly embarrass others. Despite the vilification campaign now being waged against me and the BI, I will not resort to the same squid tactics,” the immigration chief said.