Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz: Impressed INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz has warned undocumented Filipinos in Saudi Arabia against dealing with fixers misrepresenting themselves as personnel of the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (Polo) or the Philippine Embassy.
Baldoz said they received reports that the con men were approaching illegal Filipino workers and offering their services to facilitate their repatriation or correction of status in the kingdom.
“I sternly advise illegal Filipinos in Saudi Arabia not to further aggravate their situation. Don’t deal with swindlers and fixers,” said Baldoz.
The Philippine Embassy in Riyadh recently advised the public to avoid transacting with a certain Sunny Robredo (aka Nasanciano Robredo), Albert Guanzon, Aiza Monares and their cohorts who had been reported as claiming they could obtain fake Philippine and Saudi documents, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates and iqama (residence permits) for a fee.
According to Baldoz, the Polo had already warned Filipinos in Saudi Arabia against the unscrupulous activities of Guanzon and company back in July 2009.
Those who wish to seek assistance may get in touch with the Philippine Embassy or consulate through hotlines 4832201 to 3 or 6763868; fax nos.: 6195223 or 4832204; or e-mail at polo_riyadh@philembassy-riyadh.org or poloriyadh2010@yahoo.com. Tina G. Santos