In a significant move to enhance national security, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) officially launched its Anti-Fraud Section Document Examination Laboratory at Clark International Airport (CRK) Terminal 2. This milestone event, attended by key government officials and international partners, underscores the commitment to fortifying the nation’s borders against fraudulent activities.
Strengthening Border Protection
The ceremony opened with welcoming remarks from Ma-an Krista T. Lapid, Terminal Head of Bureau of Immigration-CIA, who emphasized the Bureau of Immigration’s mission: “Our commitment is to advance forensic document examination, securing our borders against evolving threats.”
Marivic Beltrano, Acting Chief of the Anti-Fraud Section (AFS), provided a brief historical background. She highlighted the pivotal collaboration with the Australian government in 2004, which established the Anti-Fraud Section to combat illegal migration, human trafficking, and terrorism. “Ensuring safer borders is our core objective,” Beltrano stated, adding that the expansion of document examination laboratories represents a firm commitment to modernizing border security tools and strategies.
State-of-the-Art Capabilities
Commissioner Atty. Joel M. Viado unveiled the new lab, featuring cutting-edge forensic microscopes and advanced equipment. He expressed gratitude to the Australian government for its continued support. “This facility will prevent the use of fraudulent documents by passengers,” Viado noted, commending the dedication of CRK’s Immigration Officers in maintaining border integrity.
The laboratory launch marks the third of its kind in the country, following earlier implementations in Davao and Cebu. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to deploy anti-fraud capabilities at significant locations, including Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 1 and 3.
Building International Partnerships
The Australian Embassy’s involvement has been instrumental, providing specialized workshops and pocket training sessions. William Rivera, Chief Immigration Officer at the Australian Embassy, reiterated their commitment to knowledge-sharing initiatives, ensuring Philippine immigration personnel can detect fraud with precision.
Atty. Zaniah V. Siton, Acting Chief of the Verification and Compliance Division, stressed the evolving nature of border security challenges. “Those seeking to exploit vulnerabilities are becoming more sophisticated, but we are prepared,” Siton affirmed.
Looking Forward
The new laboratory symbolizes not an endpoint but a beginning—an ongoing effort to innovate, collaborate, and meet future challenges head-on. As Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera, CEO of Clark Development Corporation (CDC), summarized, “This initiative reflects our collective resolve to uphold justice and ensure the integrity of our borders.”
LIPAD President and CEO Noel F. Manankil echoed this sentiment, thanking all partners for their collaborative efforts. “This state-of-the-art facility strengthens our nation’s defenses and signifies a more secure future for all.”
The launch at Clark International Airport is a crucial step in modernizing the country’s border security infrastructure, reinforcing the Philippines’ dedication to combating document fraud and safeguarding its people.