DoJ orders probe on immigration officials involved in trafficking

THE DEPARTMENT of Justice (DoJ) has ordered a probe on immigration officials allegedly involved in human trafficking and escort services.

Justice Secretary Menardo I. Guevarra, in Department Order No. 038 dated January 22 but released only on Friday, directed the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to investigate the alleged link of Bureau of Immigration (BI) officials in prostitution services.

“The NBI, through director Dante A. Gierran, is hereby directed and granted authority to conduct an investigation and case build up on the alleged involvement of Bureau of Immigration (BI) officials and personnel in human trafficking activities and escort services,” the order said.

The investigation also involves the alleged facilitation of Filipinos leaving for work abroad using a tourist visa.

Mr. Guevarra also wants a check on foreign nationals entering the Philippines through Kalibo International Airport, Puerto Princeso International Airport, and Kalibo International Airport.

A report on the investigation and case build up must be submitted within 30 days.

In a message to reporters on Friday, BI Spokesperson Dana Krizia M. Sandoval said the BI will cooperate with the DoJ throughout the investigation process.

“The Bureau is open and welcomes any investigation of its mother department, the Department of Justice, in uncovering any possible human trafficking and escort services in several international airports,” she said. — Gillian M. Cortez