BI Agent Dismissed After Extortion Arrest in Cebu

Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado

BI Agent Dismissed After Extortion Arrest in Cebu

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | May 6, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has swiftly dismissed an agent following his arrest in Cebu for alleged extortion, underscoring President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr.’s directive for integrity in public service.

The 61-year-old BI agent was apprehended on the evening of May 5 by officers from the Philippine National Police Regional Police Office 7 (PNP-RPO 7) inside a restaurant in Mandaue City.

The arrest stemmed from a complaint by a 43-year-old Korean national who accused the agent of demanding “protection money.” Authorities conducted an entrapment operation in which the complainant, acting as a poseur victim, handed over marked bills to the suspect. Officers immediately moved in and arrested the agent.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado confirmed the agent’s immediate relief and the initiation of administrative charges. His case has also been forwarded to the Civil Service Commission for the termination of his service contract.

“We will not allow a single erring employee to tarnish the integrity of the Bureau,” Viado stated. “This incident demonstrates that law enforcement and government agencies are actively combating the abuse of authority. We will ensure justice is served and swiftly remove those who exploit others.”