Justice Sec Remulla calls out BI, NBI agents for photo ops with deported mayor

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has called for an explanation from Bureau of Immigration (BI) and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) agents who took photos with dismissed Bamban Mayor Alice Guo.

Remulla instructed officials to issue show cause orders against those who took the photos, emphasizing that due process will be followed.

The controversy arose after viral group photos showed Guo smiling alongside BI and NBI agents as they escorted her to the airport for deportation on Friday.

Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano IV noted that the agents were celebrating a 'small win' but acknowledged that posting such pictures was inappropriate.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. commented, suggesting it is part of the 'new culture' where people take photos for social media posts to show they are part of significant events.

Various senators have criticized the actions as unprofessional and called for apologies and reprimands from those involved.

The Philippine National Police, NBI Director Jaime Santiago, and BI Fugitive Search Unit chief Rendel Ryan Sy have issued apologies following public backlash.