‘Punit passport’ threat to PH tourism industry, says Gatchalian

Philippine News Agency

A passport is deemed mutilated if its data page becomes unreadable or if any information is missing. (File Photo: Erica Poyauan/Unsplash)

MANILA – Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said on Thursday the reported “punit (rip) passport” or deliberate tampering with passenger’s passport is a threat to the country’s tourism industry.

In a statement, Gatchalian said if left unchecked this could drive away tourists and undermine confidence in the country’s airport system.

“The reported ‘punit passport’ scheme is a serious threat to our country’s reputation as a tourist destination,” he said.

Gatchalian said authorities should immediately hold those responsible accountable, adding the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and airport authorities should formulate security protocols that ensure the safety of passengers without compromising convenience and comfort.

DOTr Secretary Vince Hizon has issued warning on the reported scheme, which happened in some airports in the country resulting in the offloading of passport holders.

Hizon advised passengers bound for international flights to always check the validity and condition of their passports before traveling and to consult with passport centers or airport authorities when in doubt.

Under the Philippine Passport Act, a passport is considered damaged if its physical condition is altered due to wear and tear, aging, negligence, or other factors that leave it mutilated or defective.

A passport is deemed mutilated if its data page becomes unreadable or if any information is missing. (With report from Leonel Abasola/PNA)