Lawyers for former House Speaker Martin Romualdez demand an apology and retraction from the Bureau of Immigration (BI) after what they describe as “baseless” and “patently false” reports that he planned to leave the Philippines. Romualdez’ spokesperson says a demand letter was sent to BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, with the lawyers arguing that information cited by the Office of the Ombudsman regarding Romualdez’ alleged attempt to depart came from the BI. The Romualdez camp maintains the claim is untrue and seeks an apology from the agency.
In response, the BI says it stands by its statements on Romualdez’ alleged travel plans and denies having disseminated false information. The BI’s position follows the demand for apology and retraction, which was reported after claims surfaced in connection with travel restrictions imposed by the Sandiganbayan. The issue is presented in the sources as a dispute over the accuracy of the BI’s information and whether it was correctly characterized in related discussions involving the Ombudsman.
