Wanted American Fugitive Captured by Immigration Agents

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado

Wanted American Fugitive Captured by Immigration Agents

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEKcom l February 4, 2026

MANILA , Philippines – A 56-year-old American man, identified only as “Jan,” wanted in the United States on multiple charges of sexual assault, including rape and offenses against a minor, was apprehended by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) in Lucena City, Quezon Province, on Wednesday morning. The arrest underscores the Philippines’ commitment to denying sanctuary to foreign fugitives, particularly those posing a threat to children.

The operation, executed on January 28 in Barangay Mayao, Lucena City, was a coordinated effort involving the BI FSU, the Lucena City Police, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the Quezon Police Provincial Office, and government intelligence forces.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado emphasized that the arrest aligns with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to prioritize child protection and public safety by apprehending and deporting foreign fugitives.

“The President has made it clear: the Philippines will not be a hiding place for predators and fugitives,” Viado stated. “Through our #ShieldKids campaign, we are intensifying our actions against foreign nationals who pose a threat to our children and communities. Those who abuse our hospitality will be found, arrested, and deported.”

According to BI FSU Chief Rendel Ryan Sy, “Jan” is the subject of an outstanding arrest warrant issued by the Superior Court of Washington for King County in 2024. The warrant cites charges of Rape in the Second Degree and Rape of a Child in the Third Degree under the Revised Code of Washington.

Further complicating his legal status, “Jan’s” passport has been revoked by the U.S. Department of State, rendering him an undocumented alien in the Philippines.

Immigration records indicate that “Jan” last entered the Philippines in 2023 and failed to secure a visa extension, resulting in an overstay. He was also subject to active Blacklist and Watchlist Orders due to his undocumented status and designation as an undesirable alien.

Commissioner Viado highlighted the significance of the arrest in reinforcing the BI’s #ShieldKids campaign, which aims to safeguard children from abuse, exploitation, and sexual crimes perpetrated by foreign nationals.

The suspect will remain in the BI Warden’s Facility while awaiting deportation proceedings. The case serves as a stark reminder of the Philippines’ dedication to upholding its laws and protecting its vulnerable populations from foreign offenders.