On March 16th, the Philippines Bureau of Immigration announced that after successfully re-arresting the South Korean fugitive Na Ikhyeon, a full internal investigation has been launched, and plans are underway to suspend more personnel suspected of aiding his escape.
Immigration Commissioner Joel Viado confirmed that in addition to the two contract workers and one permanent employee who have been dismissed, more staff are currently under investigation for dereliction of duty, negligence, or direct involvement in the suspect's jailbreak.
"This incident has exposed deep-seated issues within the system, not just mistakes, but deliberate sabotage," Viado stated. "We are digging deeper to ensure that all involved are brought to light."
He has recommended preventive suspension for several immigration officers, with more expected to be held accountable. Meanwhile, the investigative team is reviewing the records of other detained foreigners to trace potential corruption patterns within the immigration bureau.
"This is not just a jailbreak incident, but an opportunity to thoroughly eradicate a corrupt system," Viado emphasized. "We must break the long-standing bad practices to ensure the fairness of the system."
As part of the reform measures, Viado has directed the immigration bureau to enhance monitoring of high-risk detainees and plans to transfer them to more secure detention facilities soon. Additionally, the bureau will conduct mandatory background checks on officials managing foreign fugitives, implement personnel rotations to prevent the establishment of improper relationships, and strengthen cooperation with foreign intelligence agencies to improve the capability to apprehend fugitives.
Currently, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the National Police (PNP), and Interpol are working closely with the immigration bureau to ensure that fugitives are arrested and deported promptly. Viado added that for detained foreigners with pending cases in the Philippines, the immigration bureau will arrange for online court appearances as much as possible to reduce security risks.
"The under-the-table deals and internal collusion have ended," Viado declared. "All involved personnel will be purged and prosecuted criminally."
He also issued a stern warning to all immigration officers: "If you continue to neglect your duties or collude with criminals, you will not only be dismissed but also face the severest legal penalties."
Viado admitted that the cleanup efforts have faced resistance from some vested interests, but he stressed that this would not affect the progress of the reforms. "We expect backlash, rumors, and even slander, but we will not back down; we must do the right thing. All involved personnel will pay the price they deserve."
