The Australian government has donated to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) advanced equipment that could enhance fraud detection by analyzing security features such as holograms, watermarks, and microtext.
In a statement, the BI said the donated Video Spectral Comparators (VSC) "allow immigration forensic document examiners to detect irregularities invisible to the naked eye, ensuring the integrity of travel documents and border control processes."
“This donation is another step in modernizing our processes and building a more secure and efficient immigration system,” said BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado.
Viado said the Australian Department of Home Affairs (DHA) and BI signed a deed of donation during a ceremony held at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) last Jan. 14.
He also said: "The Australian Department of Home Affairs has been a steadfast ally, helping us fortify our capabilities with advanced tools and training. This partnership exemplifies our dedication to progress and innovation."
The donated four VSC units will be deployed at the Zamboanga, Davao, Bohol-Panglao, and Kalibo international airports.
The BI said it has two VCS units stationed at Mactan-Cebu and Clark international airports.