The Bureau of Immigration (BI) launched its new forensic document laboratory at Clark International Airport (CIA), which is seen as a component of the BI’s Anti-Fraud Section (AFS) — important for identifying forged documents and bolstering border security.

BI commissioner Atty. Joel Anthony Viado led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which was attended by key personalities including First Secretary and Principal Migration Officer for Integrity Jennifer Bryant, Lipad Corporation CEO and president Noel Mananquil, Clark International Corporation CEO and president Joseph Alcazar and Clark Development Corporation CEO and president Agnes VST Devanadera.

Viado narrated that the laboratory is equipped with innovative technologies such as a Video Spectral Comparator, an IOM Verifier, and forensic document microscopes to improve the BI’s ability to detect counterfeit papers.

These technologies offer microscopic-level analysis, which allows for the detection of tiny security features and irregularities that may suggest fraud.

The BI chief also stressed the importance of the laboratory, tracing its origins back to a 2004 partnership with the Australian government to combat illegal migration, human trafficking, and terrorism.

He added that the AFS has expanded from a single office to various locations across the country, including ports in Davao, Cebu and now Clark.

“This laboratory is a significant step in our border security efforts,” Viado said. “We are making sure that no counterfeit paper is overlooked with these state-of-the-art instruments. The bureau’s dedication to upholding the integrity of our immigration procedures is demonstrated by our expansion.”

In addition to outlining efforts to improve the bureau’s capabilities, Viado stressed the significance of enacting the proposed BI modernization bill, adding that in order to provide a cohesive and safe immigration system, he claimed that this would make it possible to purchase more sophisticated technologies to be implemented in all of the nation’s major ports.