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Advocates Philippines
BI Probes Joseph Sy's Son Over Citizenship Fraud
Photo credit: BI
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is reviewing the citizenship records of Johnson Cai Chen, also known as Johnson Chua Sy, after Senator Risa Hontiveros raised alarms in a recent Senate privilege speech.
Hontiveros revealed that Johnson Sy, son of controversial businessman Joseph Sy, reportedly holds two active passports—one Chinese, one Filipino—and two separate birth certificates with conflicting information. She warned these discrepancies could signal fraudulent citizenship, posing a potential threat to national security.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado emphasized the gravity of the situation:
“Dual identities and dual passports are red flags. If proven fraudulent, they will be dealt with swiftly and firmly under our laws. Our duty is clear: to protect the integrity of Philippine citizenship and our national security,” he said.
For context, Joseph Sy was arrested on August 21, 2025, at NAIA Terminal 3 for allegedly misrepresenting his Filipino citizenship. Fingerprints matched those of a Chinese national named Chen Zhong Zhen, and he has been detained at the BI facility in Bicutan, Taguig.
Hontiveros revealed that Johnson Sy, son of controversial businessman Joseph Sy, reportedly holds two active passports—one Chinese, one Filipino—and two separate birth certificates with conflicting information. She warned these discrepancies could signal fraudulent citizenship, posing a potential threat to national security.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado emphasized the gravity of the situation:
“Dual identities and dual passports are red flags. If proven fraudulent, they will be dealt with swiftly and firmly under our laws. Our duty is clear: to protect the integrity of Philippine citizenship and our national security,” he said.
For context, Joseph Sy was arrested on August 21, 2025, at NAIA Terminal 3 for allegedly misrepresenting his Filipino citizenship. Fingerprints matched those of a Chinese national named Chen Zhong Zhen, and he has been detained at the BI facility in Bicutan, Taguig.
Oct 7, 2025
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