MANILA, Philippines — World No. 6 pole vaulter EJ Obiena was detained by US Department of Homeland Security agents for over 12 hours on suspicion of escaping felony charges in the Philippines upon arriving in Los Angeles from Italy last July 7 to set up training camp in Chula Vista in preparation for the World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon. Obiena, 26, will compete in the qualification round on July 22 and if he makes it, the final on July 24.
Obiena was shocked when he was flagged by US Immigration authorities. The basis for detention was suspicion of being a fugitive. US officials were apparently tipped off by an unidentified source “with the intent to disrupt his entry into the US and disrupt his effort to medal.” It turned out to be a false whistleblower tip.
US officials had copies of press stories about PATAFA’s accusations that Obiena embezzled funds and falsified public documents in liquidating advances from PSC. The accusations were later withdrawn and Obiena was cleared from wrong-doing by COA. PATAFA has since changed leadership and new president Terry Capistrano is now in Eugene awaiting Obiena’s arrival to support his chase for a first-ever Philippine medal in the World Championships.
While in detention, Obiena convinced US authorities of his innocence. He was eventually released with an apology from US Immigration officials and made his way to training camp in Chula Vista, a two-hour drive from Los Angeles. “It was an unfortunate incident to be held in detention without fully understanding the basis,” said Obiena. “It definitely threw me off a bit. But it worked out. I’m back in training and focused on doing my best for my country.”
A statement from Obiena’s team mentioned that he has retained legal counsel in the US and is “fully cooperating with all parties to investigate this matter as false whistleblowing violates multiple US laws.” Obiena said the ordeal is now behind him and “I’m focusing on my preparations going to Eugene.”