A Japanese man who was detained at a Philippine immigration facility says people held there can easily contact the outside world. Another man who is suspected of organizing a series of burglaries in Japan and goes by the nickname "Luffy" is being held at the facility.

The Japanese man in his 60s told NHK that he had trouble with the Philippines' immigration authority while living in the country around 2000, and spent several months at the facility.

He said detainees there were able to buy items like liquor, tobacco and prepaid cards for mobile phones from staff by paying more than market prices.

He also said he was free to contact friends outside the facility.

He added that there had been rumors for years that some detainees were involved in crime by instructing people outside the facility.

He said "detention was in name only even back in those days, and detainees could effectively buy freedom depending on their relationships with staff."

He went on to say that these days, money and information can be sent much more easily on the Internet, creating an optimal environment for criminals.