Senator Raffy Tulfo expressed serious concerns about the immigration crisis in the Philippines, following a series of congressional hearings that revealed how high-profile individuals involved in illegal gambling operations have managed to leave the country undetected by border control officials. This ongoing issue has raised alarms about national security and the effectiveness of immigration policies, particularly in light of recent events involving prominent figures evading authorities.
During a Senate hearing, Tulfo highlighted the case of Shiela Guo, an alleged associate of the dismissed Bamban Mayor, Alice Guo. Shiela Guo, who was apprehended in Indonesia and deported back to the Philippines, faced the Senate panel for the first time. The hearing shed light on how these high-profile figures could flee the country without being flagged by immigration authorities, further intensifying concerns over the immigration crisis in the Philippines.
Tulfo’s remarks emphasized the gravity of the situation, pointing to a potential national security threat. He stated that this crisis could be linked to sleeper cells from enemy countries, which necessitates urgent action from authorities. The senator also questioned why those involved in aiding these escapes have yet to be apprehended and brought to justice.
The issue is not limited to the Guo family, as there have been multiple instances where illegal Chinese immigrants were intercepted at Philippine borders. Tulfo questioned the lack of legal action against these individuals, as well as the possible involvement of local officials in facilitating their illegal entry into the country. He called for a thorough investigation into the role of various agencies in this immigration crisis.
A critical aspect of the problem lies in the country’s border control policies, particularly concerning passengers of chartered flights. Tulfo stressed the need for tighter security measures at hangars, as these private flights, often used by VIPs, bypass standard security procedures. This loophole allows fugitives to escape unnoticed, contributing to the growing immigration crisis in the Philippines.
Bureau of Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco admitted that syndicates are likely involved in processing paperwork for these illegal immigrants. He noted that these foreign nationals often have no knowledge of who handled their documents, suggesting that organized crime groups are facilitating their entry into the country.
The ongoing investigation by the Department of Justice (DOJ) is nearing completion, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. hinting that officials responsible for these lapses will soon be identified and held accountable. As the immigration crisis in the Philippines continues to unfold, authorities are under pressure to tighten border control policies and prevent future incidents that could compromise national security.
