Manila: The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Wednesday reported that mining executive Joseph Sy is expected to be returned to its detention facility within the week after his attending physicians declared him medically fit for discharge from hospital confinement.

According to Philippines News Agency, Commissioner Joel Viado stated that Sy's hospital confinement for a month was authorized solely on humanitarian and medical grounds while he was receiving treatment under government custody. Viado noted, "Mr. Sy's temporary hospital confinement was approved because of medical necessity. With his attending physicians having certified that he is already fit for discharge, the medical basis for his continued hospital confinement no longer exists."

Sy, 60, has been under the custody of the BI in connection with deportation proceedings arising from its investigation into his alleged acquisition of Philippine citizenship documents. Immigration authorities arrested Sy at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Aug. 21, 2025, after his biometrics matched those of a Chinese citizen.

The BI chief also reported that the case remains the subject of ongoing judicial proceedings following a decision of the Court of Appeals, which the government is currently reviewing through the legal remedies available under the law. Viado explained that Sy remains under the lawful custody of the Bureau pending the final resolution of the case.

He added that Sy's planned return to the BI's detention facility is a "custodial and administrative measure and should not be construed as affecting the ongoing judicial proceedings." "The Bureau respects the judicial process and continues to study and pursue the appropriate legal remedies available under the law. Until the case is finally resolved, the Bureau will continue to perform its mandate in accordance with existing laws and established legal processes," he added.

Viado likewise assured that the Bureau remains committed to protecting the welfare of all persons under its custody. "Should Mr. Sy require further medical attention at any time, the Bureau will ensure that he receives appropriate medical care consistent with humanitarian standards and applicable regulations," he said. The BI did not provide details on where Sy was confined or the reason for his confinement.