Quizzed by senators, BI exec invokes right to silence

MANILA, Philippines — Former Bureau of Immigration Deputy Commissioner Al Argosino chose to stay silent at Thursday's Senate hearing on a bribery scandal after a round of questioning by Sen. Manny Pacquiao.

At the Senate blue ribbon committee hearing on Thursday, Argosino said he is invoking his right as he was being unfairly branded as guilty.

"I respect the honorable senators in saying that we are not telling the truth, your honor, and with this, your honor, I invoke my right to remain silent," Argosino said at the public inquiry.

Chinese casino tycoon Jack Lam, through former police officer Wally Sombero, allegedly paid off former BI deputy directors Argosino and Michael Robles with P50 million for the release of 1,316 Chinese nationals arrested and detained at the Fontana Leisure Park and Casino in November 2016.

At the hearing, Pacquiao repeatedly asked Argosino to tell the truth, and even used used religious arguments against lying. Argosino countered by saying that the affidavits and other documents they submitted will speak for itself.

Argosino said he has been cooperative in the ongoing investigation, noting his presence at the past three hearings.

Pacquiao, however, said that Argosino has to directly answer all questions raised by lawmakers.

"Ang tinatanong ko ay para ito sa bayan. Para ito sa kalutasan nitong problema na ito. Itong bribery or extortion o corruption," Pacquiao said.

Sen. Richard Gordon, chair of the committee, ended the exchange by pushing for an executive or closed-door session to allow both Argosino and Robles to reveal more sensitive information.

Robles, however, said that he and Argosino should be confronted with hard evidence.

"I'd like to be confronted with basis or anything that will say na meron kaming dapat i-confront na statement so I can appeal or deny it," Robles said.