BI requires P200K bond from One Direction members for alleged drug use

Before they can perform for their multitudes of Philippine fans, popular band One Direction will have to post a cash bond because of alleged drug use.

 

The Bureau of Immigration said Thursday the bond is a requirement for the promoter to secure a Special Work Permit for the band.

 

“The imposition of cash bond was pursuant to the referral of the Anti-Drugs Advocate, Laban ng Pamilyang Pilipino, Inc. (ADA), requesting for strict scrutiny of applicants for SWP, particularly those with purported links to drug use,” said BI spokesperson Elaine Tan.

 

She added the condition "is intended to protect the public interest should the band members commit any violation during their stay in the Philippines.”

 

BI said the referral was based on viral videos of band members Zayn (Zain) Malik and Louis Tomlinson smoking marijuana.

 

Malik and Tomlinson were directed to post cash bonds of P200,000 each. The amount will be forfeited if they commit any immigration violation, are caught using illegal drugs, or otherwise promote the use of drugs.

 

Also, Tan said the band will be prevented from performing during the scheduled concert dates on March 21 and 22, "should the producer fail to post the cash bond prior to those dates.” — Joel Locsin/JDS, GMA News