Binay seeks strict measures in screening applicants for retiree visas

CRACKDOWN Some of the more than 800 Philippine offshore gaming operator (Pogo) workers supposedly “rescued” from a complex run by a Chinese company in Bamban, Tarlac, await instructions from authorities. They include 497 foreigners, most of them Chinese. (File photo from PRESIDENTIAL ANTI-ORGANIZED CRIME COMMISSION)

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) is facing renewed pressure to review its policies regarding the issuance of special resident retiree visas (SRRVs) to foreigners as young as 35 years old.

In a statement on Sunday, Senator Nancy Binay expressed concern that the issuance and renewal of SRRVs have long been exploited.

She called on the PRA to enforce strict measures in screening and vetting applications for retiree visas.

READ: BI nabs 4 Chinese tagged in handing out illegally-obtained gov’t papers 

“Visa fraud and fake identities adversely impact national security. What’s particularly alarming is the PRA policy of allowing Chinese SRRV applicants who are 35 years old, an age that can be categorized as ‘soldier’s age,'” Binay was quoted as saying in a mix of Filipino and English.

“There should be security measures in place, and the vetting process for applications should be tightened regardless of nationality,” she said.

The senator’s call to the PRA comes after four Chinese men, who are suspected of leading the distribution of fraudulently-acquired government-issued identification cards and documents, were apprehended in Palawan on March 19.

According to Binay, the suspects are holders of retirees’ visas.

“We have mentioned several times about the POGO [Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators] workers who reportedly happen to be SRRV holders. But what is more alarming is the recent arrest of four Chinese nationals who are retirees’ visa holders in the Philippines,” the senator said.

PRA records show there are approximately 78,000 foreign retirees in the Philippines, with around 30,000 Chinese “retirees” being permitted to permanently reside in the country.

Binay also floated the possibility of Chinese syndicates conniving with the government to be issued SRRVs.

READ: BI admits scheme of ‘Chinese mafia’ a national security concern 

“The growing number of interceptions of Chinese nationals presenting authentic government-issued Philippine documents identifying them as Filipino traders or retirees has now become a national security concern,” she observed.

“What is the monitoring mechanism of the PRA to check if these ‘retirees,’ together with those who pose as ‘investor-class immigrants,’ are really legit?” she asked.

The senator added a whole-of-government response is necessary to identify syndicates issuing fraudulently acquired government IDs, including visas and passports, and to take tougher action against foreigners who are committing illegal activities in the Philippines.