BI seeks help in search for Reyes brods

MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is asking the help of other countries in the search for former Palawan governor Joel Reyes and his brother, Coron Mayor Mario Reyes, who are accused of killing environmentalist Gerry Ortega.

BI spokesperson Ma. Antonette Mangrobang said while there is no confirmation that the former Palawan governor flew to Vietnam under the name Joseph Lim Pe, they are having the brothers’ travel records checked.

Lim Pe and Mario Reyes reportedly left for Vietnam on March 18, but Mangrobang said there is a possibility that Lim Pe might have only used Vietnam as a jumpoff point to go to another country.

“That is the reason why we have been requesting not only records of the arrival in Vietnam but also their departure,” she said.

BI officials have also sought the assistance of the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Vietnam embassy but so far there has been no reply, according to Mangrobang.

The BI earlier suspended immigration officers Rodelio Udarbe and Wesley Gutierrez, who cleared Lim Pe and Mario for departure.