The Remulla Reform: Viado’s Mission to Rebuild a Broken Bureau

By Louis ‘Barok‘ C Biraogo — October 23, 2024

Can one man reform a system drowning in bureaucracy? Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla seems to think so. His swift appointment of Atty. Joel Anthony Viado as Officer-in-Charge of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) is more than just a personnel change—it’s a declaration of war against corruption and inefficiency. By dismissing Commissioner Norman Tansingco, Remulla is making it clear that no corner of his department is safe from scrutiny. But as Viado steps into the fire, the question remains: can he truly reshape an institution long marred by suspicion and scandal?

The Fall of Tansingco: A Cautionary Tale

Tansingco’s abrupt dismissal, following the controversial departure of Alice Guo, a former mayor embroiled in corruption allegations, sent shockwaves through the political landscape. The timing of Guo’s escape—after a delayed report by the Bureau of Immigration—triggered suspicions of negligence, if not outright complicity, within the bureau. Remulla’s decision was clear: leadership must change. The shadow of the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), already an ethical minefield, looms large over the immigration system, with concerns about working visas adding fuel to the fire.

Enter Joel Anthony Viado, the man entrusted to steer the ship away from the rocks. His qualifications are beyond reproach—a degree in Political Science and a law degree from the University of the Philippines, followed by decades of experience in legal practice. A bar passer since 1999, Viado has ascended the ranks of the Bureau, becoming Deputy Commissioner in 2023. For many, his appointment signals a fresh start for the beleaguered BI. But the storms ahead are fierce.

Viado: The Right Man for the Job?

In Viado, Remulla sees more than just a capable bureaucrat. He sees someone who can restore the fractured reputation of the Bureau of Immigration, someone with the integrity to face down systemic corruption and the backbone to implement reforms that might draw ire from entrenched interests. Viado’s legal mind is sharp, his reputation untainted. He is, in many ways, the anti-Tansingco, chosen not for his connections but for his qualifications. But is that enough?

The challenges before him are not for the faint-hearted. Corruption scandals, systemic inefficiencies, and public distrust plague the Bureau like barnacles on an old ship. The most immediate challenge will be rebuilding confidence—both within the Bureau’s workforce and the public it serves. Trust, once lost, is not easily regained.

The Swirl of Corruption and Public Trust

The BI has long been the subject of controversy, and the escape of Alice Guo only served to expose its vulnerabilities. For Viado, the first hurdle will be to prove that the BI under his leadership is not the same as the one that allowed high-profile figures to slip through the cracks. He will have to grapple with allegations of corruption and inefficiency, the very charges that sank his predecessor. To restore faith, he will need to prioritize transparency—making the inner workings of the Bureau more open and accessible to public scrutiny.

The POGO Problem

With President Marcos banning Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), new challenges arise for the Bureau of Immigration (BI). Atty. Joel Anthony Viado must oversee the departure of thousands of foreign POGO workers, revoke their visas, and intensify crackdowns on illegal activities linked to the industry. Coordinating with law enforcement and other agencies is crucial to ensuring compliance and preventing overstaying or underground operations. Viado must also rebuild public trust in the BI, navigating political pressures and restoring the Bureau’s reputation through transparency, strict enforcement, and ethical leadership during this critical transition.

The Battle Within: Reforming the Bureau

Internally, Viado faces a different kind of challenge. The BI’s staff, many of whom may have grown complacent under previous leadership, will need to be motivated, retrained, and reoriented toward a culture of service and accountability. Morale is likely low in the wake of the scandals, and Viado will have to rebuild from within. A key strategy will be instilling a sense of pride in public service—reminding his staff that their role is critical to national security and the integrity of the justice system.

But internal reform won’t be easy. Viado will have to confront powerful factions within the Bureau, some of whom may resist change for fear of losing power or income streams from illicit activities. His strategy must be twofold: reward integrity and root out corruption without hesitation.

Navigating Political Currents

As if the internal challenges weren’t enough, Viado will also need to be acutely aware of the political pressures that come with the job. The Bureau of Immigration is a high-stakes position in a nation where immigration issues can quickly become political hot potatoes. Powerful figures may attempt to influence his decisions, especially regarding controversial cases involving foreign nationals. To succeed, Viado must chart an independent course, guided by law and not by political expediency.

Recommendations for Viado’s Survival and Success

Transparency is Key: Viado should establish a public dashboard detailing visa issuance, investigations, and key decisions. This would help counter the public’s perception that the BI operates in the shadows.
Internal Oversight: Implement a rigorous internal audit mechanism, independent of the BI, to investigate allegations of corruption and ensure accountability at every level.
Public Engagement: Regular press briefings and town hall-style meetings with stakeholders would help bridge the gap between the BI and the citizens it serves.
Collaborate with International Agencies: Partner with foreign intelligence and law enforcement agencies to crack down on illegal immigrants and foreign nationals involved in illegal enterprises, sending a clear message that the BI will not be used as a tool for exploitation.
Invest in Staff Training: Modernize the Bureau’s approach by investing in digital technologies and staff training, ensuring that all employees understand their critical role in national security.

Conclusion: A Man in the Eye of the Storm

Joel Anthony Viado’s appointment to the Bureau of Immigration is not just another reshuffling of power; it’s a crossroads for an institution on the brink of either collapse or rebirth. The weight of corruption, inefficiency, and political meddling could either crush him or forge a leader capable of steering the Bureau into a new era. One thing is clear: failure is not an option, and the clock is ticking.