DFA warns public against 'travel exemption' scammers

The Philippine government on Sunday warned the public against scammers supposedly issuing fake "travel exemption letters" required of foreigners entering the Philippines amid travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) warned the public against fakers offering travel exemptions in exchange for exorbitant fees; as well as those offering passport appointment assistance through social media.

"We do not collect any 'travel exemption' fees nor charge foreign nationals permitted to enter the country in accordance with the protocols laid down by the IATF and the Office of the President," said Assistant Secretary for Consular Affairs Neil Frank Ferrer.

Last year, the DFA temporarily suspended visa issuances and privileges due to the pandemic, and just last week extended travel restrictions on foreign travelers from over 30 countries until end-January to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus variant, with confirmed cases already being reported in the country.

In the same statement, the DFA noted that its embassies and consulates do not charge for booking appointments for consular services and passport services.

Ferrer said: "The Department has received reports that some enterprising individuals are taking advantage of the pandemic by pretending to provide assistance to book a passport appointment in exchange for money." 

Moreover, "The DFA strongly advises the public to be vigilant and wary of such illegal services. Please help us by reporting any group or individual involved in these fraudulent services."

Queries and reports may be forwarded to the DFA through its hotline 8836-7763 or 09683958599, or via email to oca.visa@dfa.gov.ph, or through the official social media pages of the DFA. —LBG, GMA News