By Gabriela Baron
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) warned on Monday, May 15, travelers against misrepresentation of identity.
BI Commissioner Normal Tansingco said passengers who make up details about their travel are often flagged for misrepresentation.
“Just be truthful,” Tansingco said.
“If you lie about your identity, your background, or the details of your travel, then it could be a reason for our immigration officers to doubt the legitimacy of your trip,” he continued.
The official made the comment following a social media post about a passenger being prevented from boarding her flight four times.
“Initial investigation revealed that during her attempt in April, she claimed that she was employed by a large real estate company in the Philippines, even showing documents purportedly issued by said company,” Tansingco said.
However, upon verification with the company, it was confirmed that supposed certification, as well as other documents, were fake, the official noted.
Tansingco added that a common modus of illegal recruiters and human traffickers is to provide fake documents to victims to make their travel seem legitimate.
“If you are traveling for legitimate purposes, then there is no reason to lie,” he added.
-ag
