In Manila, there has been a discovery of fraudulent activities related to visa issuance, resulting in the blacklisting of approximately 400 foreigners. An ongoing investigation is being conducted to address irregularities in the approval process for work visas granted to expatriates. The authorities suspect that the total number of blacklisted individuals may exceed 1,000 as the investigation progresses. In response to these findings, the Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) has taken action by suspending the issuance of visas for expatriate workers who are linked to companies identified as “sole proprietorships” or shell companies.
The decision to halt visa issuance is a precautionary measure while the DOJ investigates how a substantial number of work visas were approved. The focus of the inquiry is on cases where visa applications were submitted by entities suspected of being “fly-by-night” operations or labeled as “potentially fake” companies. The authorities are aiming to ensure the integrity of the visa approval process and prevent any further fraudulent activities in connection with work visas for expatriates in the Philippines.
Visa Fraud, Foreigners Blacklisted, Philippines Immigration, Visa Scandal, Blacklist Update