SEN. Risa Hontiveros has expressed alarm over the reported discovery of 1,200 fake birth certificates in Davao del Sur, calling it a “clear threat” to public order and national security.
“Our recent legislative inquiries into POGOs (Philippine offshore gaming operators) have already revealed that criminal groups use fake Filipino citizenship to carry out their illicit activities,” Hontiveros said in a statement on Tuesday, adding Filipinos should cease from selling their citizenship because “the Filipino identity was not for sale.”
“We, at the Senate, will continue to look into this alarming trend,” said Hontiveros, chairman of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality.
Sen. Risa Hontiveros. PHOTOS BY RENE H. DILAN
“Somewhere out there, someone with a fake identity is trying to buy land, use Philippine passports to give himself or herself a brand new identity, form corporations, and perhaps even have the audacity to run for public office. This has been done before. Who condoned this? Who were the protectors? Did this happen only in Davao del Sur or nationwide? We must crack down on Filipinos who have made this possible,” she added.
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III described the report as “alarming,” noting a comprehensive investigation on the incident was imperative.
“I am sure the good mayor there will help in conducting that investigation,” Pimentel said in a text message.
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