MANILA — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is considering prohibiting the use of mobile phones inside its detention facilities in Taguig and Muntinlupa following reports of smuggled gadgets and other contraband.
Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the proposal aims to tighten security and prevent abuses, as the agency steps up efforts to hold accountable personnel found violating regulations.
Under the plan, the BI will expand the use of landline telephones and designated video call booths to allow detainees controlled access to communication, particularly for contacting family members, embassies, and legal counsel.
The move follows simultaneous inspections conducted on Friday at both facilities, led by the BI intelligence division with assistance from the National Capital Region Police Office and the Bureau of Corrections. Authorities searched all rooms and common areas, seizing unauthorized cash, mobile phones, electronic devices, cigarettes and e-cigarettes, bladed weapons, and gambling-related items.
Viado said the intensified operations were prompted by claims made by Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, who alleged he had access to a mobile phone while in BI custody before his deportation to Russia on Jan. 17, 2026, after spending nine months in detention.
Although the alleged incident reportedly occurred in mid-2025 and earlier confiscations had already been conducted, Viado said the new information warranted a wider and more decisive crackdown.
The BI earlier disclosed that Zdorovetskiy’s companion, foreign national Malik Dejoun Okojie, was allegedly involved in smuggling mobile phones into the facility with the assistance of his Filipino wife.
As a result of the investigation, three BI personnel have already been dismissed or relieved from their posts. A contractual worker was terminated, while an officer and a staff member were temporarily removed pending further inquiry.
Viado warned that additional administrative cases are expected, stressing that the agency will not tolerate corruption or negligence within its ranks.
While BI detention facilities are temporary holding centers for foreign nationals awaiting deportation and not penal institutions, the use of electronic devices remains strictly regulated.
