Photo credit: Congress PH

During the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs' resumed hearings on Wednesday, Rep. Robert Ace Barbers questioned the dual citizenship status of businessman Henry Bigay, also known as Henry Cai Yang. Despite China's ban on dual citizenship, Bigay allegedly holds both Philippine and Chinese passports, raising concerns among lawmakers.

Bigay, an incorporator of Yatai International Corporation linked to the Pampanga drug warehouse, where illegal drugs worth P3.6 billion were found, faced scrutiny over discrepancies in his citizenship status. Officials noted his ability to renew a Chinese passport last year, which typically requires proof of birth in China.

Vicente Uncad from the Bureau of Immigration informed the committee that Bigay is listed as 'native-born' in their records, indicating a need for further clarification regarding his citizenship status and passport applications.

Lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction with Bigay's vague responses during questioning, particularly regarding his business dealings and personal identity. His relationship with Maria Luisa Bigay, listed as a company incorporator, also raised eyebrows as he claimed not to have met her.

In response to absent resource persons, Chairman Barbers issued a stern directive for mandatory attendance at the next hearing, emphasizing the seriousness of the ongoing investigation.

The hearings are conducted under House Resolutions 1346 and 1351, reflecting the legislature's commitment to uncovering the truth behind the massive drug seizures in Pampanga and Subic Bay Freeport Zone.