The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) recently issued a strong warning to foreign nationals attempting to secure a Philippine passport through illicit means. The DFA made it clear that anyone caught engaging in such activities would face prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.
This reminder was emphasized during the meeting of the Inter-Agency Committee Against Passport Irregularities (ICPI), which took place on Wednesday. The meeting was led by Undersecretary for Civilian Security and Consular Affairs, Jesus Domingo, and Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs, Adelio Angelito Cruz.
Representatives from various government agencies, including the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Bureau of Immigration, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Department of the Interior and Local Government, and Philippine National Police, were present at the meeting.
One of the key updates provided during the meeting was from the NBI, who shared information on ongoing investigations related to foreign nationals fraudulently acquiring Philippine passports.
Undersecretary Domingo stressed the importance of closer coordination among ICPI member agencies to expedite the verification and cross-matching of information found in PSA certificates and government-issued identification cards. This collaboration is crucial in preventing passport fraud.
Passport fraud is a serious offense that undermines the integrity of the passport system and poses significant risks to national security. The DFA’s strong stance against this illicit activity sends a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated.
It is essential for foreign nationals to understand the gravity of attempting to acquire a Philippine passport through fraudulent means. The Philippines, like many other countries, has strict laws and regulations in place to ensure the authenticity and security of its passports.
Engaging in passport fraud can result in severe legal consequences, including criminal charges, imprisonment, and deportation. It is crucial for foreign nationals to respect the laws of the country they are in and to follow the proper legal procedures when applying for a passport.
For those who genuinely require a Philippine passport, it is important to familiarize themselves with the official application process and requirements. By doing so, they can avoid any unintentional violations and ensure a smooth and lawful application.
The DFA’s warning serves as a reminder to all foreign nationals that the Philippine government is committed to maintaining the integrity of its passport system. Through the collective efforts of various government agencies, the country aims to combat passport irregularities and maintain the security of its travel documents.
Foreign nationals residing or visiting the Philippines should be aware of the legal consequences associated with passport fraud. It is advisable to seek guidance from the appropriate authorities or legal experts if there are any uncertainties regarding the passport application process.
By adhering to the laws and regulations governing passport acquisition, foreign nationals can avoid unnecessary legal complications and ensure a smooth and lawful stay in the Philippines.
Source: The Manila Times
