Immigration Bureau says medical clearance removes basis for continued confinement outside detention facility
By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is set to transfer Joseph Sy back to its detention facility this week after doctors cleared him for discharge, ending his temporary hospital confinement that had been granted on medical and humanitarian grounds.
Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the Bureau received confirmation from Sy’s attending physicians that he is now medically stable, prompting authorities to implement his return to the BI’s custodial facility.
Sy remains under government custody while deportation proceedings against him continue. The case stems from the Bureau’s investigation into the alleged irregular acquisition of Philippine citizenship documents.
Viado emphasized that Sy’s hospitalization was never intended to alter his custodial status but was approved solely to allow him to receive necessary medical treatment.
“Once the attending physicians determined that he was fit to leave the hospital, there was no longer any reason to continue his confinement there,” the commissioner said.
The BI chief underscored that Sy’s transfer back to detention is an administrative step required under existing procedures and has no bearing on the legal issues still pending before the courts.
He noted that the government continues to examine available legal options following a ruling by the Court of Appeals, stressing that the case remains unresolved.
According to Viado, the Bureau will continue to abide by the judicial process while carrying out its mandate under Philippine immigration laws.
He also assured that Sy’s medical condition will continue to be monitored even after his return to the detention facility.
“If further treatment becomes necessary, the Bureau will ensure that he receives the appropriate medical attention consistent with humanitarian considerations and applicable regulations,” Viado said.
The Bureau reiterated that it remains committed to upholding due process, respecting court proceedings, and faithfully enforcing immigration laws while awaiting the final disposition of the case.
ia/xf
