The Philippine Airlines (PAL) has warned passengers against using fake Covid-19 test results at the airports, noting that at least 15 individuals were recently prevented from boarding their flights since they presented fraudulent Covid-19 test results at the airport check-in counters.
The passengers apprehended in Manila were bound for Cotabato, Dipolog and Zamboanga. They were turned over to the Philippine National Police (PNP). Most of them were referred for inquest at the city prosecutor’s office, while others have been isolated at quarantine facilities pending their real swab test results.
“We continue to work with government authorities against these fraudulent acts. We warn violators that falsification of public documents is punishable by law. We thank the PNP for their assistance on this matter,” PAL spokesperson Cielo Villaluna said.
PAL has advised passengers to secure Covid-19 test results only from legitimate medical providers, and warned they may be charged with falsification of public documents and violation of RA 11332 or the Mandatory Reporting of Notifiable Diseases and Health Events of Public Health Concern Act.
Villaluna said if found guilty, they may face penalties of up to P50,000, or one to six months imprisonment.