'Without proofs, BI official who aired corruptions will be held accountable' -- Viado
Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said on Wednesday, June 18, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) official who aired instances of corruption in the bureau will be held accountable if proofs are not presented.
While Viado did not name the BI official, sources said the commissioner must be referring to BI Executive Chairman lawyer Gilberto Repizo.
Earlier, news reports stated that Repizo sent a letter stating that Viado allegedly delayed key deportation cases, favored well-connected individuals, and tolerated corrupt practices.
Viado’s statement was issued amid the Senate inquiry sought by Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian into the “white paper” allegedly issued by anonymous concerned BI employees who accused Viado of corruption.
Viado said: “It will be difficult to determine the veracity of the allegations since the sources are anonymous. On the other hand, the BI official involved, since his leaked correspondence contain his signature, can be summoned to prove his accusations and can be made accountable under the law should he fail to substantiate his claims.”
He also said that since the official is a member of the bar, “I am sure he understands fully the legal implications of his actions and their possible legal consequences.”
“His act of identifying himself as the source of these allegations is one brave act, and provides a stark contrast the black propaganda initiated by anonymous parties using the discredited method of issuing ‘white papers’ and hiding behind the mask of ‘concerned employees,’” he added.
In the meantime, Viado said the BI is preparing the documents that may be needed in the prospective hearings at the Senate.
He also said the documents will be forwarded to the office of Senator Gatchalian and to the office of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla.