The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has opened at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) a document examination laboratory that features a state-of-the-art video spectral comprator to detect fraudulent documents.
"The opening of this laboratory is a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to combat document fraud,” said BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco in a statement on Thursday, June 20.
The BI said the Australian government provided support by donating the sophisticated equipment and providing specialized training to BI personnel.
“We are deeply appreciative of the Australian government’s support and proud of our Anti-Fraud Section's tireless efforts,” said Tansingco.
The BI has also forensic document examination laboratories at its main offices in Manila, Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), Clark International Airport, and Davao International Airport.
Also, Tansingco said the BI is also providing personnel and machinery to the MCIA to transform the airport into a major transit hub in Southeast Asia.
At the same time, Tansingco said the BI launched the Cebu Connect project in partnership with the Aboitiz GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation (AGMCAC).
"The BI is committed to supporting Cebu Connect by providing advanced resources and skilled personnel,” he said.
“This partnership will significantly improve passenger processing time and enhance overall airport security,” he added.
The Cebu Connect aims to enhance the airport's transfer service system, making connections more efficient and seamless for passengers, he also said.