The Bureau of Immigration (BI) stood by its previous statements regarding the reported travel plans of former House Speaker and Leyte 1st District Representative Martin Romualdez, who is currently under investigation for his alleged role in the flood control controversy.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado refuted allegations that the agency released “disseminated false or misleading information,” maintaining that the bureau merely provided a factual and responsible response to legitimate media inquiries.
The BI’s statement comes after Romualdez’s defense team at Solis Medina Fajardo & Malilong Law Offices demanded a retraction and formal apology, labeling the bureau’s earlier report of a canceled April 2026 trip abroad as “patently false, misleading, and gravely prejudicial” to the former lawmaker’s ongoing legal cases.
Notably, Viado and Romualdez belong to the same Upsilon Sigma Phi fraternity.
Viado emphasized that the bureau has a duty to address matters of public interest transparently when queried by the press.
“The response previously issued by the BI regarding alleged travel plans that did not materialize pertains to a supposed trip in April 2026,” Viado said.
“The bureau’s response referred to information available to the bureau at the time and was issued solely in response to legitimate media inquiries. The Bureau did not initiate the public discussion on the matter.”
Reiterating that the agency did not manufacture any details, Viado assured the public of the bureau’s commitment to due process and institutional integrity.
“We remain committed to providing honest, accurate, and responsible public information while respecting due process and the constitutional rights of all persons,” the BI chief stated.
“The Bureau of Immigration will continue to perform its mandate professionally, impartially, and in accordance with the law. Our actions and public statements will always be anchored on verified facts, good governance, and the rule of law,” he added.