SUBIC, Philippines – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has initiated a motu proprio investigation into the alleged unauthorized attempt by foreign nationals to enter and take control of private resort facilities within the Subic Bay Freeport. The incident, which reportedly occurred on April 8, has prompted BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado to order a thorough verification of the identities, immigration status, and activities of all individuals involved.
Among those reportedly part of the group attempting to gain unauthorized entry was American national Timothy Desmond. Commissioner Viado has issued a stern directive, stating, “We will not allow foreign nationals to exploit their presence in the country to interfere in domestic affairs or disrupt public order.” To this end, he has instructed relevant BI units to collaborate closely with the National Police Commission, the Philippine National Police, and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged resort takeover attempt.
Further strengthening the investigation, Commissioner Viado has mandated a comprehensive review of the visa status and travel history of the individuals implicated in the incident. The BI will also assess potential grounds for their inclusion in the immigration watchlist or blacklist. Should any violations of Philippine immigration laws be established, deportation proceedings will be initiated against those found culpable. The BI underscored that foreign nationals are explicitly prohibited from engaging in activities outside the scope of their authorized stay, including participating in local disputes or attempting to assert control over private entities without proper legal authority.
The Bureau of Immigration has reiterated its commitment to upholding Philippine laws and safeguarding national interests. “Any foreign national found to have abused the privilege of staying in the country will be dealt with accordingly, including deportation and blacklisting,” Viado affirmed. The BI assures the public of swift and decisive action to address the situation and prevent any recurrence of such incidents, reinforcing the message that the Philippines will not tolerate the misuse of its hospitality by foreign nationals.
