The logo of the Bureau of Immigration. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is again raising an alert against bogus investigation orders that target foreigners in the Philippines.
Its warning followed the discovery of a “mission order” against foreign nationals in Makati City. The document dated March 14 directed BI agents to conduct verification and investigation operations against foreigners.
However, “[n]o such order was issued by the BI,” said Commissioner Norman Tansingco.
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According to Tansingco, mission orders against foreign nationals are always specific and cannot be used to harass foreigners.
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He said they have already released several warnings against such a dubious scheme involving fake bureau employees engaged in extortion activities victimizing unsuspecting foreign nationals.
Tansingco then reminded the public, especially foreigners, that they may request verification of orders directly through the agency.