MANILA, Philippines– The Bureau of Immigration on Monday sought the cancellation of the Philippine passport of mining executive Joseph Sy and initiated deportation proceedings against him over alleged falsification of his identity.
Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco said the bureau filed a request with the Department of Foreign Affairs to cancel Sy’s passport after investigators received information questioning the accuracy of his personal data. He said the bureau asked the DFA to verify the authenticity of Sy’s passport records and determine whether false information was used to obtain the document.
Tansingco said the bureau also filed a deportation complaint against Sy before the Board of Commissioners based on findings that linked him to alleged identity irregularities. He said the bureau placed Sy on the immigration lookout list and instructed officers at all international ports to report any attempt by him to enter or leave the country while the case remains pending.
He said the bureau coordinated with law enforcement agencies to gather documents and testimonies to support the deportation case and the request for passport cancellation. He said the complaint is based on existing immigration rules covering individuals with questioned documentation.
Tansingco said the bureau will present evidence before the Board of Commissioners to support its claim that Sy misrepresented material facts in his identity records. He said Sy may face exclusion from reentry to the Philippines if the board approves the deportation request.
He said the DFA will decide on the passport cancellation after completing its verification process. He said the bureau will update its records and implement any final deportation order in coordination with other government agencies.
Tansingco said Sy may submit counter-affidavits and supporting documents during the proceedings, and the bureau will resolve the case after the board concludes its hearings.
