BI warns foreigners against fake immigration agents

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has warned foreign nationals and the public against unscrupulous individuals who have been falsely presenting themselves as immigration agents and conducting unauthorized inspections and operations.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado issued the warning after receiving reports that certain individuals have been approaching foreign nationals while claiming to be BI personnel. The suspects allegedly present fraudulent documents purporting to authorize them to conduct searches, inspections, and immigration checks.

Viado emphasized that only duly authorized immigration personnel carrying valid mission orders issued by the Commissioner are permitted to conduct immigration enforcement operations.

“Foreign nationals and members of the public should exercise caution and verify the identity and authority of individuals claiming to be immigration officers. Legitimate immigration operations are conducted only by authorized BI personnel with properly issued mission orders signed by the Commissioner,” said Viado.

The BI chief stressed that mission orders are official documents issued exclusively by the Commissioner and cannot be used to harass, intimidate, or extort money from any individual.

Under existing procedures, only lawfully-issued mission orders authorize immigration agents to conduct arrests and enforcement activities against foreign nationals found to be in violation of immigration laws.

Viado urged those who encounter suspicious individuals claiming to be BI agents to immediately coordinate with the Bureau through its National Operations Center for verification.

“We will not tolerate the misuse of the Bureau’s name and authority. Individuals found impersonating immigration officers or using fraudulent documents will face the full force of the law,” he said.

The BI likewise reminded foreign nationals that legitimate immigration personnel are required to identify themselves and present valid mission orders during official enforcement operations.

The Bureau encourages the public to report suspected cases of fraud, impersonation, harassment, or extortion involving individuals falsely claiming to represent the BI.