BI warns public against love scams amid Valentine’s season

The public was warned by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Friday afternoon about online love scams, particularly during this Valentine's season when scammers frequently prey on gullible people.

According to BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, they are still receiving reports and complaints of Filipinos being tricked by individuals claiming to be foreign nationals who were arrested by immigration officials upon arriving in the Philippines.

"These scammers make up stories to convince their victims that they are in danger and require urgent financial support. We remind the public that the BI is not in charge of handling incoming currency or personal belongings like jewelry or luggage, nor does it demand payments over the phone," Atty. Viado stated.

The BI chief added that one popular tactic is for a fraudster to pose as a foreign national who has fallen in love with a victim online. They claim they were stopped at the airport for carrying expensive gifts, such as an engagement ring or large amounts of cash, after promising to travel to the Philippines. The victim is then contacted by a phony immigration officer who demands money to guarantee the foreigner's release.

In one reported case in August last year, a woman was duped into paying P70,000 after being told that her overseas fiancé was being arrested for money laundering crimes. Other victims have been duped into paying for their partners' alleged release, only to discover later that they had been scammed.

Atty. Viado is urging the public to remain vigilant, verify information, and immediately report any suspicious incidents to the authorities.

"Scammers influence their victims by playing on their emotions. We highly advise avoiding giving money to anyone before using official means to confirm their claims," he added.

The BI reiterated its dedication to safeguarding Filipinos against fraudulent schemes, in accordance with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s instruction to fortify border security and stop criminal acts that take advantage of innocent people.