In a recent investigation into Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), a significant vulnerability was exposed: the ease with which fraudulent birth certificates could be obtained through late registration. This flaw has allowed foreigners to bypass the naturalization process and gain Filipino citizenship, enabling them to buy property and start businesses in the Philippines, according to Senator Sherwin Gatchalian.
Gatchalian emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, stating that these fraudulent documents have enabled foreigners to instantly become Filipino citizens without the necessary legal steps. He called for immediate action to track down and cancel these fraudulent birth certificates to prevent criminals from using them as a basis to remain in the country.
Following the government’s decision to ban POGOs, the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) has announced plans to nullify all birth certificates fraudulently obtained by foreigners. Solicitor General Menardo Guevarra has confirmed that the OSG’s efforts will concentrate on identifying and invalidating these documents. Additionally, the OSG plans to confiscate real properties and other assets that foreigners have illegally acquired.