MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is accelerating the rollout of audio- and video-recording body cameras for all personnel stationed at international airports to bolster operational integrity, transparency, and oversight.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado announced on Friday, September 18, that the agency aims to fully equip frontline immigration officers with the recording devices before the end of October.
“This is not only about documenting our officers’ transactions. The body-worn cameras will strengthen accountability, transparency, and monitoring, and serve as a deterrent against any personnel who may attempt to abuse their position,” Viado said.
The expedited implementation follows an active probe into an intercepted human trafficking and illegal recruitment attempt involving a departing passenger at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 in Parañaque City on September 12.
In the wake of the incident, the BI terminated a job order worker and removed two immigration officers from airport duties. One of the relieved officers was subsequently arrested by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
Viado emphasized that administrative penalties are distinct from potential criminal charges, which will be dictated by the NBI’s findings.
Investigators are constructing a comprehensive timeline to trace the passenger’s movements upon terminal entry, aiming to uncover whether any airport personnel facilitated her clearance or assisted her prior to reaching the counters.
The agency is also reviewing the potential involvement of non-BI airport staff.
“We need to establish the complete timeline of the incident and identify everyone who may have had contact with or assisted the passenger inside the terminal. Given the circumstances, our investigation cannot be limited to what happened at the immigration counter alone,” Viado said.
“We will not allow the wrongdoing of a few to undermine the hard-earned accomplishments and credibility of the Bureau. I strongly warn all BI personnel: Do not abuse your position and do not engage in illegal activities. We will take firm action against anyone found to have violated the law or abused their authority.”