American wanted for parole violation arrested in Philippines

Bureau of Immigration Photo

An American fugitive wanted in California was arrested by Philippine immigration authorities in Negros Oriental after allegedly hiding in the country while facing a parole violation tied to a dangerous drugs case.

The Bureau of Immigration said its Fugitive Search Unit arrested Jason Michael Hill, 45, on August 11 at Purok St. John, Barangay Calindagan in Dumaguete City.

BI agents carried out the operation with U.S. law enforcement authorities, the Philippine National Police, and local police and maritime units.

Hill is allegedly wanted in the United States for violating his parole in connection with an underlying dangerous drugs charge. An outstanding warrant for his arrest was issued by the Sacramento County Superior Court in California.

Immigration records showed Hill entered the Philippines in March 2023 as a temporary visitor but later overstayed.

Authorities had also placed him on the BI’s derogatory records as an undesirable alien and fugitive from justice.

The arrest comes amid President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen border security and prevent the Philippines from becoming a hiding place for foreign fugitives.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado issued a stern warning to other wanted foreigners attempting to evade justice in the country.

“Let this be a clear message to fugitives: the Philippines is not a safe haven for those escaping justice,” Viado said.

He added that the BI would continue working with foreign law enforcement agencies to track down, arrest and remove fugitives hiding in the Philippines.