MANILA — Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Norman Tansingco revealed that his agency is partnering with the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate claims of ‘escorting’ at airports.
In a statement, Tansingco affirmed their intent to work closely with the Justice Department to examine reports of facilitating travelers with problematic documents.
This announcement follows an interview with DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, who disclosed that the Department is looking into the potential resurgence of escort services offered by immigration officers at airports.
Tansingco disclosed that there are 72 pending cases against erring immigration personnel before their Board of Discipline (BOD) since he took office. Additionally, the BI has initiated over 100 cases with the DOJ, with 73 employees already receiving decisions on their cases this year, including dismissals and suspensions.
Among these cases are one involving a male immigration officer who aided the departure of 13 Filipinos later subjected to human trafficking and another case involving a male officer permitting the travel of a blacklisted Korean national.
Tansingco concurred with Remulla, acknowledging that corruption within the Bureau is not a recent issue, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to identify and deter corrupt employees.
The BI has implemented a ‘one strike policy,’ immediately reassigning any employee involved in controversies pending investigation. Additionally, technological upgrades are being introduced to enhance security and mitigate corruption. These upgrades include e-gates and artificial intelligence to reduce person-to-person interactions.
The BI is set to deploy body cameras for their inspectors by year-end, with their Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) enhancing security measures. APIS provides advanced information about undesirable aliens and security threats before their arrival in the country.
Tansingco reaffirmed their commitment to eliminating corruption within the BI, through collaborative efforts with the DOJ and technological enhancements.
