The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has cautioned Filipino women looking for foreign partner not to be victimized by the so-called "love scammers."
BI Commissioner Jaime Morente issued the warning again expecting the resurgence of the racket following the reopening of the country's borders to foreigners.
The BI chief said the fraud is committed when the victim sends money to her pseudo friend who showered her with small gifts and promises of international trips and eventually marriage.
He narrated a recent incident wherein a woman complained that her alien boyfriend was allegedly arrested by immigration officers at the Davao International Airport demanding huge cash for his release.
It turned out that there was no such incident and no arrival of the said passenger.
Morente advised Filipinos seeking biracial relationship to be more diligent in checking the true identity of their alien friend meet mostly online.
"Please do not fall prey to these swindlers, promising heaven and earth, only to be duped of your hard-earned money," he added.