Senator Sherwin Gatchalian is calling for a Senate investigation into alleged misconduct and corruption within the Bureau of Immigration (BI) related to the deportation of foreign nationals involved in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
In Senate Resolution 1381, Gatchalian cited concerns raised by BI employees about questionable deportation practices that could compromise the government’s anti-POGO efforts and allow criminal elements to escape accountability.
“The improper handling of POGO-related deportations creates serious loopholes that undermine our regulations,” Gatchalian stated.
The controversy stems from a letter sent by unnamed BI personnel to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., accusing top immigration officials of granting expedited bail to influential foreign POGO figures and auctioning permanent quota visas.
Gatchalian emphasized the need to eliminate corruption in agencies tasked with law enforcement and tighten regulatory gaps.
President Marcos confirmed he is aware of the allegations, although he noted the anonymous nature of the complaint complicates formal investigation. Nonetheless, he assured the matter is under review.