Duterte orders arrest of travelers who present fake COVID-19 test results

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday warned travelers not to present fake COVID-19 test results, particularly in tourist spots, or face arrest.

In a pre-taped public address, the president ordered the Philippine National Police, the Department of Tourism, and local government units to arrest those who would be caught presenting fake test results.

He also ordered the agencies to enforce strict compliance on health protocols on local tourism.

“‘Wag nyo gawin ‘yan, makokompromiso lang kayo, pati ‘yung gastos ninyo, kindly check twice over whether or not you have the genuine certificates,” Duterte said.

(Don’t do that. You will only be compromised, as well as your expenses. Kindly check twice over whether or not you have the genuine certificates.)

“I am also directing the DOT, PNP and all LGUs to arrest those presenting fake test results and enforce strict compliance of protocols of local tourism. Do not be afraid to file sanctions,” he added.

He said he received some reports that some travelers in several locations in the country, most notably in Boracay, were presenting fake test results to circumvent travel restrictions.

Boracay is now allowing tourists from the so-called NCR Plus bubble, which is considered the epicenter of COVID-19 infections in the country.

In March, the president ordered the police and military to go after people faking COVID-19 test results.