Manila: The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has clarified that its ongoing review of the accreditation of foreign honorary consuls is a routine exercise and is not connected to the investigation involving former Lao PDR Honorary Consul and mining executive Joseph Sy. This announcement came as part of the DFA's efforts to maintain transparency in its operations.

According to Philippines News Agency, Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Angelica Escalona emphasized that the review is part of regular institutional processes and is being carried out independently of individual cases. "The review is a system-wide policy exercise and is not linked to any individual case, which are handled separately through appropriate processes," Escalona stated.

The DFA periodically undertakes a general review of the accreditation framework for honorary consuls to ensure continued compliance with Philippine laws, international conventions, and evolving operational requirements. Escalona added, "The current review of the Honorary Consuls accreditation framework is part of this routine institutional process."

Joseph Sy, who served as the Honorary Consul of the Lao PDR to Davao, was arrested by the Bureau of Immigration at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 in August for allegedly misrepresenting his Filipino citizenship. Authorities reported that his fingerprints matched those of a Chinese national, leading to his detention at the BI facility in Bicutan, Taguig.

Meanwhile, Global Ferronickel Holdings Inc. disclosed on Friday that Sy has resigned as a director of the mining firm.