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Advocates Philippines
Ex-DPWH Chief Bonoan Back In PH; Now On DOJ Watchlist
Photo credit: BI
Former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan has returned to the Philippines, landing at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Sunday morning, January 18, according to the Bureau of Immigration (BI).
Immigration officials confirmed that Bonoan arrived from Taipei aboard China Airlines flight CI0701. His arrival immediately drew attention after authorities disclosed that he is currently under an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO), issued upon the request of the Department of Justice (DOJ).
The ILBO is connected to an ongoing DOJ investigation into alleged irregularities involving flood control projects, including so-called ghost projects that have come under scrutiny in recent months.
Immigration records show that Bonoan left the country last year to accompany his wife to the United States for a medical procedure. This time, however, he arrived alone and without any reported travel companion.
The BI stressed that an immigration lookout bulletin does not restrict travel but allows authorities to closely monitor the movements of individuals linked to active investigations. The goal, officials said, is to ensure timely coordination among government agencies.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado confirmed that information about Bonoan’s arrival was immediately relayed to the Secretary of Justice, in line with established procedures.
The DOJ has yet to issue a public statement on Bonoan’s return or on the next steps in the investigation.
Immigration officials confirmed that Bonoan arrived from Taipei aboard China Airlines flight CI0701. His arrival immediately drew attention after authorities disclosed that he is currently under an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO), issued upon the request of the Department of Justice (DOJ).
The ILBO is connected to an ongoing DOJ investigation into alleged irregularities involving flood control projects, including so-called ghost projects that have come under scrutiny in recent months.
Immigration records show that Bonoan left the country last year to accompany his wife to the United States for a medical procedure. This time, however, he arrived alone and without any reported travel companion.
The BI stressed that an immigration lookout bulletin does not restrict travel but allows authorities to closely monitor the movements of individuals linked to active investigations. The goal, officials said, is to ensure timely coordination among government agencies.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado confirmed that information about Bonoan’s arrival was immediately relayed to the Secretary of Justice, in line with established procedures.
The DOJ has yet to issue a public statement on Bonoan’s return or on the next steps in the investigation.
New Paragraph
Jan 18, 2026
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