The Philippine Embassy in Italy has issued a strong warning to Filipinos in Malta after receiving reports that some are using their passports as loan collateral—a practice that violates Philippine law.
In an official advisory released Friday, the embassy reminded Filipinos that passports are government property and must not be used for any financial transaction. “The Embassy would like to remind all Filipino citizens that, under Philippine law, passports are the property of the Philippine government and must not be used as collateral for any loan transaction,” it stated.
According to the embassy, any passport used in this manner will be immediately canceled and those involved may face legal consequences.
“To concerned Filipinos in Malta involved in such activities, please be advised that the Embassy has already communicated the matter with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in Manila for guidance on the appropriate course of action,” the advisory continued.
The embassy is encouraging the Filipino community to avoid illegal financial dealings and instead pursue safer, legal options when in need of money. It stressed the importance of protecting one’s legal identity and avoiding further complications abroad.
