The Bureau of Immigration (BI) in Manila has declared its intention to increase enforcement measures against criminal organizations utilizing Philippine passports and other government-issued documents for illicit purposes. Concern has been raised regarding foreign nationals, particularly those of Chinese origin, who are acquiring authentic documents through unlawful channels to gain entry into the country.
BI representative Dana Sandoval underscored the need for a comprehensive, inter-agency approach to combat the threat posed by foreigners entering the country using forged documents. Sandoval also disclosed multiple instances of foreign nationals falsely presenting themselves as Filipino citizens by means of counterfeit Philippine documents, emphasizing the gravity of the situation as a significant national security concern requiring prompt attention from relevant authorities.
Legislator Robert Ace Barbers has further expressed concern over the involvement of the “Chinese mafia” in various illegal activities within the country. Barbers disclosed a case in which a Chinese national illicitly obtained a Philippine birth certificate and subsequently a passport, enabling them to engage in unlawful operations within the country. These cases have underscored the necessity for robust enforcement measures to counter the illicit activities of foreign nationals within the Philippines.
The BI has restated its commitment to enforcing strict immigration protocols for both incoming and outgoing foreigners, while also intensifying efforts to monitor individuals residing in the country without proper documentation. These measures seek to curb the entry and activities of foreign nationals engaged in illegal operations within the Philippines.
In a notable incident from the previous year, a Chinese woman was apprehended at the Manila airport while attempting to depart for her home country using forged immigration documents. The woman faced charges for carrying fraudulent documents and unlawfully entering the Philippines, underscoring the urgency of addressing the issue of illegal entry and activity by foreign nationals.
The Philippines has reaffirmed its resolve to crack down on the exploitation of its immigration and citizenship procedures by foreign criminal elements, particularly those operating under the guise of legitimate documentation. The government is resolute in its efforts to strengthen security measures and enforce the law to safeguard the integrity of its immigration system and protect national security.
In light of these developments, it is imperative for the authorities to enhance collaboration and coordination among relevant agencies to thwart the illicit activities of foreign nationals seeking to exploit the Philippines’ immigration and citizenship regulations.
Sources:
– Philippine Daily Inquirer
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