Photo credit: PBBM

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared the Philippine government's commitment to reinforcing fair and stringent visa regulations for foreign visitors.

Speaking after the distribution of Presidential Assistance in Cagayan De Oro City, President Marcos emphasized the absence of special treatment in visa issuance.

"We have no special rules for anyone. It's equal treatment for all, but we will enhance enforcement, especially in assessing visa applications, conversions from tourist to student visas, and land purchases where individuals falsely claim Filipino identity," President Marcos stated.

The President's remarks follow reports of visa abuse, posing threats to national security through document forgery, scams, and human trafficking.

"The problem is evident from reports of abuse, so we will closely monitor and enforce stricter measures," President Marcos highlighted, stressing the need for legitimate entries and discouraging false Filipino claims.

Regarding the Bamban, Tarlac controversy involving Mayor Alice Guo, President Marcos assured a thorough investigation by government agencies and the Senate, promising stringent measures to prevent such incidents from recurring.

"We will ensure this doesn't happen again, reducing unauthorized entries, regardless of the nationality of those involved. We'll scrutinize those pretending to be Filipino," President Marcos affirmed.

Additionally, President Marcos warned of arrests for individuals engaged in human trafficking and scams, with authorities closely monitoring such cases.

"We're vigilant against scammers and human trafficking. Anyone involved will be apprehended," President Marcos asserted, underscoring the government's resolve to combat illicit activities.