After fake Pinoys, BI runs after fake companies

The Bureau of Immigration said on Saturday afternoon that, as part of its efforts to expel illegal aliens from the country, it is collaborating with the Department of Justice to find foreigners who apply for working visas through fictitious companies.

A list of more than 100 companies is now being verified by the BI's Verification and Compliance Division on suspicion of submitting fictitious papers with their visa applications, according to BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco.

It is believed these foreign nationals have benefited from the services of unscrupulous individuals who supply paperwork for fictitious companies.

Tansingco said they have already relayed the initial findings to the DOJ on October. The agency has also initiated the cancellation of visas of aliens petitioned by fake companies.

Raids carried out by law enforcement authorities have revealed prostitution dens and fraud centers masquerading as genuine businesses.

Tansingco said that he has ordered the immediate blacklisting of foreign nationals petitioned by fake companies. Meanwhile, liaison officers who try to file petitions for applications on behalf of fraudulent firms risk having their accreditation revoked.