Purpose and Objectives of the Law Enforcement Division
- The LED provides the Commissioner with qualified and competent personnel specialized in enforcing immigration laws.
- It aims to enhance BI’s capability for intelligence-based enforcement and security operations.
- The LED specifically targets investigations, arrests, and counterintelligence operations involving:
- International terrorists
- Drug traffickers
- Human traffickers
- Criminals
- Foreigners deemed threats to peace, security, or national interest
- Individuals violating terms and conditions of their stay in the Philippines
Composition and Functions of the LED
- The LED is composed of three component units, each with distinct powers and responsibilities:
A. Operation Unit (OU):- Executes lawful orders such as mission orders, commitment orders, warrants of deportation, and similar processes against foreigners.
- Responsible for the arrest and deportation of fugitives wanted in their countries of origin.
B. Security Unit (SU): - Conducts counterintelligence activities at airports, seaports, and sub-ports.
- Controls and supervises the BI-Bicutan Detention Center’s operations and administration.
- Protects BI facilities from sabotage and prevents subversion or complicity with undesirable aliens.
C. Administrative Unit (AU): - Provides administrative and logistical support for the LED operations.
- These units may undertake other functions as assigned by the Commissioner.
Administrative and Logistical Provisions
- LED manpower is to be drawn from existing BI personnel through appropriate personnel orders issued by the Commissioner.
- Resources and logistical needs will follow established government accounting rules and regulations.
Supersession and Effectivity
- Any previous department orders, circulars, issuances, or memoranda inconsistent with this Order are amended or modified accordingly.
- This Order takes immediate effect upon promulgation.
- Copies are to be filed with the Office of the National Administrative Register (ONAR) at the UP Law Center, UP Diliman, Quezon City.
Legal and Operational Context
- The creation of the LED aligns with the Philippines’ adherence to United Nations Conventions and protocols promoting global peace and security.
- The LED complements existing legislation including the Anti-Human Trafficking Act, Migrant Workers Act, and the Human Security Act.
- It reflects the BI’s evolving role in combatting international crimes and threats within the immigration domain.