Marcos wants stricter enforcement of visa rules for foreign nationals

THE Philippine government, under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has unveiled plans to implement stringent rules and enforcement measures aimed at addressing immigration abuses and irregularities plaguing the country.

Marcos emphasized the necessity for uniform regulations applicable to all individuals entering the Philippines, irrespective of their backgrounds or affiliations.

“There will be no special rules for anyone. Everyone will be treated equally,” affirmed President Marcos during a recent media interview in Cagayan de Oro City.

Acknowledging the prevalence of abuses within the immigration system, including the proliferation of fake documents and misrepresentation by individuals seeking entry into the Philippines, Marcos highlighted the urgency for decisive action.

Reports have underscored instances of illegal activities such as scams, human trafficking, and identity fraud, prompting the government to take proactive steps.

To tackle these concerns head-on, the government will ramp up enforcement efforts and bolster scrutiny of visa applications and conversions, particularly focusing on those seeking student visas and land purchases under false pretenses of Filipino citizenship.

“We will ensure that those who enter our country do so legally and transparently. There will be no room for deception or exploitation,” he reiterated.

Authorities are poised to crackdown on individuals involved in fraudulent activities, including scammers and human traffickers, regardless of their nationality or status. The government is steadfast in its commitment to safeguard national security and uphold the integrity of the immigration system by apprehending and prosecuting offenders.

“We will pursue and apprehend anyone engaged in these unlawful activities. No one is above the law,” he said. (GP)