BI urges law amendment to stop foreign fugitive delays

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Monday urged lawmakers to amend existing laws to prevent foreign fugitives from evading deportation.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado highlighted the need for clear and permanent prohibitions against legal tactics that delay deportation proceedings, following the re-arrest of South Korean fugitive Na Ikhyeon in Angeles City last March 9.

Viado warned that without clear legal safeguards, fugitives will continue to manipulate the system; Ikhyeon is facing an estafa case in Quezon City that has delayed his deportation.

Some lawyers file cases on behalf of their clients to argue for extended stays due to ongoing legal issues, exploiting a loophole in current laws, and these charges are sometimes 'arranged' by fugitives with complainants.

The BI chief stressed that wealthy and well-connected fugitives can hire top legal experts to circumvent immigration laws, limiting the agency's ability to act effectively under the current framework.

To address this issue, the BI is collaborating with the Department of Justice, Integrated Bar of the Philippines, and the Supreme Court to prevent misuse of legal proceedings as a shield for criminals.

Despite these efforts, Viado emphasized that legislative action is needed to establish clear prohibitions against delaying maneuvers employed by fugitives.