Amid reports of 'denied entry', Pinoys visiting Israel advised to have legit docs

Filipinos intending to visit Israel were advised by the Philippine Embassy to make sure they have legitimate documents, amid reports of some countrymen who were denied entry.

"Nakarating sa atensiyon ng Embahada ang naging karanasan ng ilang kababayan na hindi inaprubahan ang pagpasok o 'denied entry' sa bansang Israel," the embassy said in an advisory posted on social media on Thursday. 

(It has come to the attention of the Embassy that some countrymen were denied entry to Israel.)

Although Philippine passport holders have visa-free access to Israel, the embassy clarified that this does not mean guaranteed entry.

"Nais po naming bigyang diin na subalit ang Filipino citizens ay visa-free (hindi kailangan ang visa) sa Israel, HINDI ITO GARANTIYA na lahat ng Pilipino ay patutuluyin o makakapasok nang walang aberya sa kanilang pagdating," it added.

(We would like to emphasize that despite Filipino citizens having visa-free privilege in Israel, this does not guarantee that all Filipinos will be allowed entry to the country.)

The embassy said all visitors to Israel undergo thorough checking by border authorities, and like other nations, Israel has the power to control its borders and deny entry to those who it deems have no legitimate purpose for their visit.

"Wala pong kapangyarihan ang ating Embahada na manghimasok dito," it said.

(The embassy has no power to intervene.)

The embassy advised Filipino visitors to be ready to answer border control officers' questions and prepare all legitimate documents such as hotel bookings, return flight ticket, itinerary, employment record, bank statement, among others.

It also advised Pinoys to respect the Israeli culture.

"Maging sensitibo din sa kultura, relihiyon at kaugalian ng Israel — hindi po ito bansang Kristiyano. Bagama't pinahihintulutan nila ang religious pilgrimage, iwasan po nating mangaral sa kanila o salungatin ang kanilang paniniwala," the embassy said.

(Be sensitive to the culture, religion and custom in Israel — this is not a Christian country. Although religious pilgrimage is allowed, please avoid preaching to them or opposing their beliefs.) 

It added that Filipinos with inquiries regarding entry to Israel may contact the embassy or the nearest consulate. —KG, GMA Integrated News