Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado has denied allegations that the Bureau of Immigration (BI) disseminated false or misleading information, saying the agency merely responds to legitimate media inquiries with factual, fair and responsible information.

Viado issued the statement in response to a letter from Solis Medina Fajardo & Malilong Law Offices seeking the retraction of the BI’s previous response to media inquiries regarding Rep. Martin Romualdez.

He said the bureau’s role is to answer legitimate questions from the media on matters of public interest by providing information that is factual, fair and within the scope of its mandate.

“The response previously issued by the BI regarding alleged travel plans that did not materialize pertained to a supposed trip in April 2026,” Viado said.

“The Bureau’s response referred to information available to the Bureau at the time and was issued solely in response to legitimate media inquiries. The Bureau did not initiate the public discussion on the matter,” he added.

Viado also said the concerned party is aware of the applicable immigration records and travel restrictions relevant to the matter.

“The Bureau respectfully rejects the allegation that it disseminated false or fabricated information. We remain committed to providing honest, accurate and responsible public information while respecting due process and the constitutional rights of all persons,” Viado said.

He added that the BI will continue to carry out its mandate professionally, impartially and in accordance with the law.