Former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan has arrived back in the Philippines, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) confirmed on Sunday, January 19, 2026. His return comes while he is subject to a government-issued lookout order connected to ongoing investigations.
Arrival Details and Travel History
Bonoan landed at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay City on Sunday morning. He was aboard China Airlines flight CI0701, which originated from Taipei. According to immigration records, he traveled to the United States on November 11, 2025, to accompany his wife for a medical procedure. The BI noted that he arrived without any reported travel companion.
The Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO)
The former secretary is under an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO). This order was issued upon the instruction of the Department of Justice (DOJ). It is related to ongoing probes into alleged anomalies in certain flood control projects during his tenure.
The Bureau of Immigration clarified that an ILBO is not a travel restriction. Instead, it serves as a monitoring mechanism. Its primary function is to ensure that authorities are immediately notified whenever a person of interest in a pending investigation arrives in or departs from the country.
Standard Protocol Followed
In line with standard operating procedures, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado stated that the bureau has already relayed all details regarding Bonoan's arrival to DOJ Acting Secretary Fredderick Vida. This immediate notification allows the Department of Justice to take any necessary subsequent steps in their investigation.
The return of the former public works chief marks a significant development in the case, ensuring he is within the jurisdiction of Philippine authorities as inquiries continue.
