BI chief welcomes probe into corruption allegations

Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado last week expressed support for President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call to investigate allegations of corruption within the agency.

“We respectfully acknowledge and welcome President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s statement regarding the need to look into the issues raised in the so-called Bureau of Immigration (BI) white paper,” Viado said in a statement.

“We share the President’s view that transparency, fairness, and due process are essential in addressing matters of public concern,” he added.

The President confirmed in a media interview that Malacañang is reviewing a complaint reportedly filed by anonymous BI employees, which accused Viado of corruption and misconduct. Despite the unsigned and vague nature of the complaint, Marcos said the government intends to look into the matter seriously.

Viado, who has denied the accusations, said he would defer to the outcome of the investigation.

“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,” he said.