MANILA, Philippines—The Bureau of Immigration (BI) said that more than 400 foreign nationals are set to be blacklisted after having been found to be petitioned by fake companies.
BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said that the move is part of the agency’s campaign to remove illegal aliens in the country, particularly those who use fake documents to be able to obtain visas.
Tansingco said that three consecutive audit reports from their verification and compliance division (VCD) revealed that a total of 459 aliens have been using fake companies in their application.
“These foreign nationals’ applications were processed using the services of accredited entities, authorized to apply in behalf of the foreign nationals,” said Tansingco. “However, through our audits, we discovered that the companies that petitioned them are spurious,” he added.
The BI Chief shared that at least 79 accredited liaison officers face investigations by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for the racket.
Tansingco also revealed that 4 BI lawyers are also under investigation in relation to the modus.
Last week, the BI reported uncovering the modus, prompting a massive investigation on the purported scheme.
Tansingco said that they reported the matter immediately to the Department of Justice, who committed to assist in the investigation with the NBI.
According to Tansingco, the subject foreign nationals’ visas will be cancelled and those inside the country will be ordered to leave and blacklisted.
The audit follows after local law enforcement agencies conducted raids uncovering scam hubs and prostitution dens posing as legitimate companies.
“We are after aliens who falsify or misuse documents,” said Tansingco. “Our drive against illegal aliens remain relentless, and we will continue to run after those who coddle such violators,” he added.
