Filipino workers slam Halifax businessman in fraud case

Some of alleged fraud victims of Hector Mantolino during one of his court appearances. INQUIRER FILE

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia — Businessman Hector Mantolino’s sentencing hearing resumes Jan. 25, but some of his Filipino former employees denounced him at his recent hearing, despite the fear of retaliation from the prominent community leader.

The case of immigration fraud against Mantolino seems to have divided the city’s Filipino community, with some of his compatriots supporting him.

Hector Mantolino, accused of immigration fraud. FACEBOOK

Mantolino pleaded guilty in December 2017 to misrepresentation under provisions of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. The prosecution is recommending a two-years prison sentence, noting the need to deter “like-minded individuals” and to fully denounce the offences against temporary foreign workers, according to a report by The Canadian Press.

Nova Scotia Supreme Court Justice Glen McDougall told the court that victims have a statutory right to read their victim impact statements without fear of reprisals.

Two workers say they were underpaid and mistreated for years but remained quiet for fear of being deported back to the Philippines.

Meanwhile, a third worker says he was grateful to Mantolino for helping him come to Canada, and that given the opportunity he would work for the businessman again.