BI urges public to snub ‘fixers’

Bureau of Immigration INQUIRER FILE PHOTO/ ALEXIS CORPUZ

The government has warned the public to avoid dealing with “fixers,” urging them to transact only with authorized employees of the Bureau of Immigration (BI).

Some of these “fixers” are unaccredited travel agents and law offices who might have been violating Philippine immigration laws, BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said on Wednesday.

The public, most especially travelers, should snub the services offered by these “fixers” and immediately report them to the BI for any illicit or suspicious activities, Morente said.

“Transact only with authorized employees of the agency and avoid dealing with ‘fixers’ and other unauthorized individuals and entities,” Morente said in an advisory.

Likewise, scalawags within the BI would not be spared.

“Any irregularity involving BI personnel should also be reported so they could be investigated and held administratively liable,” the BI commissioner stressed.

Morente issued the warning as he urged foreign tourists to avoid overstaying in the country to avoid any inconvenience.

“Aliens whose authorized period of stay is about to expire may apply for extension of their stay at the BI main office or at the nearest Bureau office,” Morente said.

“Aliens must always comply with the conditions of their visa to avoid deportation. Do not engage in study, employment or business without first obtaining the necessary permit or visa,” he stressed.

Morente said foreigners who want to work in the country must secure a special work permit or working visa while those who want to study here must obtain a special study permit or a student visa. /jpv