Senator Risa Hontiveros warned that some foreigners facing serious criminal charges may be exploiting the Philippines’ asylum system to continue committing crimes within the country. “There are also foreigners who abuse the asylum system to escape crimes they committed in their own countries,” Hontiveros said during a hearing of the Justice and Human Rights subcommittee. She added, “Worse, there are indications that after being granted protection, they continue their criminal activities in our nation.” Hontiveros cited several individuals who are subjects of red notices issued by Interpol. “They misuse international protection mechanisms designed to protect those fleeing persecution, not those fleeing accountability. The common thread in these cases is the misuse of Philippine institutions,” she stated. The senator also noted that some asylum applicants reportedly hold multiple passports and have been linked to gambling-related offenses. She emphasized that the Filipino public ultimately bears the consequences of such abuses.
