MANILA, Philippines: In a recent meeting with Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Norman Tansingco announced the formation of a fact-finding team to delve deeper into the “visa scam” that came to light last year. The BI discovered that over 400 foreigners had been petitioned by fake companies, prompting the need for a thorough investigation.
During the meeting, Tansingco provided an update on the ongoing investigation to the DOJ secretary. Last year, the BI reported the blacklisting of 459 aliens after an audit conducted by its verification and compliance division (VCD) revealed their involvement in using fake companies to apply for the 9(g) pre-arranged employment visa, which is a requirement for foreigners working in the Philippines.
Tansingco expressed his belief that the 400 blacklisted foreigners are just the tip of the iceberg. Initial investigations pointed to the involvement of at least 40 travel agencies and liaison officers, with a total of 116 fake employers identified. In November, the BI recommended the cancellation of the visas of these aliens and the issuance of show cause orders against those involved in the application. They also recommended show cause orders against four BI lawyers and the abolition of the Legal Division’s visa task force.
The ongoing investigation also covers the alleged involvement of four BI lawyers. As a result of discussions with the DoJ chief, the BI released an advisory in December suspending the acceptance of applications from companies with single proprietorship as petitioners. Tansingco explained that sole proprietorship companies were predominantly used by the erring aliens, and they were keen on auditing visas issued within the last five years. Once the investigation concludes, more individuals are expected to be blacklisted.
Tansingco emphasized the immediate action taken upon discovering the scheme and the approval of their recommendations by the DOJ. The visa-issuance procedures have been reorganized from top to bottom, including the processes of accepting, reviewing, assessing, and issuing visas. Tansingco estimated that around 1,000 or more foreigners may have been petitioned by these fake companies. He also made it clear that he would not hesitate to recommend administrative disciplinary sanctions against BI personnel involved in the fraudulent scheme.
According to civil service rules, the Secretary of Justice serves as the administrative disciplining authority for BI employees and personnel. Tansingco highlighted the BI’s commitment to anti-corruption measures, given the challenges they have faced in the past. The ongoing audits and investigations have been instrumental in uncovering schemes that could have otherwise persisted. Tansingco expressed gratitude to the SoJ for their continuous support in their efforts to cleanse the ranks of the BI.
The formation of the fact-finding team and the ongoing investigation into the visa scam demonstrate the BI’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the immigration system in the Philippines. By taking swift action and implementing stricter procedures, the BI aims to prevent further instances of fraud and ensure that only legitimate individuals are granted visas to work in the country. The cooperation between the BI and the DOJ is crucial in holding those involved accountable and maintaining transparency in the immigration process.
Source: The Manila Times
