Pinoys in Thailand warned vs. using passports as loan guarantees

Philippine officials in Thailand reminded Filipinos there not to use their passports as guarantees for loans because this is against Philippine law.   In an announcement on its website, the Philippine Embassy said those who use their passports as guarantees risk having the passports canceled.   “Ipinapaalala ng Pasuguan ng Republika ng Pilipinas sa Kaharian ng Thailand na ang Pasaporte ay pag-aari ng Republika ng Pilipinas ayon sa Philippine Passport Law o Republic Act No. 8239. Dapat panatilihin at pahalagahan ang integridad ng pasaporte,” the embassy said.   “Ang pagbabalewala sa paalalang ito, katulad ng paggamit ng pasaporte bilang garantiya sa anumang pagkakautang, ay maaring maging dahilan upang makansela ang inyong pasaporte,” it added.   Under Section 11 of Republic Act 8239, a Philippine passport "remains at all times the property of the Government, the holder being a mere possessor thereof as long as it is valid and the same may not be surrendered to any person or entity other than the government or its representative."   It provides, however, that a Filipino citizen may voluntarily surrender his/her passport to a Philippine Service Post for storage and safekeeping for which a proper receipt shall be issued for use when reclaiming the passport at a later date.   Section 19 (d) of the act also penalizes improper use with a fine of P60,000 to P150,000, and imprisonment of six to 15 years.   The embassy said individuals who may have inquiries may contact it via 02-259-0139 local 127, 122-124; or email it at bangkokpe@gmail.com. - VVP, GMA News