The Bureau of Immigration (BI) clarified that an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) family missed their flight to Dubai after arriving at the immigration area just minutes before boarding, contrary to claims circulating online.
According to the BI, airport records show that the family reached the immigration counter at 10:51 a.m.—only nine minutes before their 11:00 a.m. boarding time. The OFW couple and their child were cleared for departure immediately, but their household helper, who held a tourist visa and had a separate flight itinerary, was referred for secondary inspection.
Immigration officers reportedly advised the family to proceed to their gate while their companion was being processed. However, they chose to wait. The BI said its officers made every effort to expedite the process, allowing the helper to submit her secondary inspection form by 11:43 a.m. and obtain clearance just 12 minutes later.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado reminded passengers to allow sufficient time for immigration checks. “Our officers have the responsibility to verify the authenticity and sufficiency of travel documents. We appeal to the public to allot sufficient time for inspection and to ensure that all requirements are complete before reaching the counter,” he said.
Viado also cautioned travelers against taking photos or videos inside immigration areas, citing security and privacy regulations. He emphasized that cooperation between passengers and immigration frontliners helps maintain order and ensures a smoother travel experience.
