Nine guards at the Bureau of Immigration (BI) detention center in Bicutan, Taguig City, were relieved following the escape of two South Korean detainees early Monday.
BI Commissioner Jaime Morente gave the sacked jail guards 72 hours to explain why no administrative and criminal charges should be filed against for dereliction of duty.
The Koreans were identified as Park Wang Yeol, 38, and Jung Jae Yul, 38, who escaped by forcibly opening the ceiling and rooftop of their detention cell and scaling the fence surrounding the detention facility in Camp Bagong Diwa.
Morente said the incident is now being investigated to determine if any of the guards were directly involved, even as he ordered a massive manhunt.
In their report, the jail guards said they only learned about the escape, after another Korean detainee informed them of the incident.
The escapees left behind the main gate of the detention center a blanket and pillow.
Morente disclosed that a fact-finding panel has already been formed to investigate the jailbreak.
“We also appeal to the public to give us any information on their whereabouts so they can be recaptured and immediately deported to Korea where they are wanted to stand trial for their crimes,” the BI chief added.
He said the public may call (02) 465-2400 loc. 213, 226 and (02) 524-37-69 or text (+63) 917 573-3871, (+63) 908 894-6646 or send email to [email protected].
The BI has also sought the help of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in hunting the fugitives.
Aside from assembling several tracker teams, Morente alerted immigration officers at international airports and seaports to apprehend the Koreans if they are spotted attempting to leave the country. (Jun Ramirez)