BUREAU of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado has issued a stern warning that individuals found to be harboring foreign spies will face legal action.
Viado stated that this measure aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s commitment to safeguarding the country from foreign threats and ensuring national sovereignty.
The BI is collaborating with the Department of Justice (DOJ) to gather information regarding alleged spies previously apprehended by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and those currently being monitored by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Initial investigations reveal that these foreign individuals possess regular immigration status in the Philippines, raising suspicion about their integration into society.
“Should we confirm that there are individuals—whether Filipinos or foreign nationals—that hid or assisted these alleged spies, we will file cases against them for harboring illegal aliens, in violation of section 46 of the Philippine immigration act of 1940,” Viado warned.
He emphasized that the BI has pledged to the DOJ to pursue all necessary charges against the suspects and their accomplices, ensuring they face the full weight of Philippine law and receive the maximum penalty for their crimes.
