The local IATF intercepted additional 8 plane passengers who presented fake reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test results to enter the city Saturday, August 7.
The passengers were deported to Manila, their place of origin Sunday, August 8, at their own expense. They were issued citation tickets for the payment of administrative fines. Prior to their return flight, they spent the night in a local hotel, also at their own expense.
Meanwhile, 2 more passengers arrived at the airport Sunday afternoon, August 8 with falsified RT-PRCR documents. Both are from Jolo and are set to return to their flight of origin, Manila, Monday, August 9.
Inbound travelers are alerted to secure authentic RT-PCR test results from DOH-accredited testing facilities.
Since last week, a total of 23 passengers were deported to their place of origin for faking COVID-19 testing results. The Local IATF together with the police is readying charges against these individuals.
Executive Order 674-2021 provides that “travellers caught without RT-PCR or with FALSIFIED or IMITATION RT-PCR results shall be charged with an administrative fine in the maximum amount of ₱ 5K. In addition, they shall immediately be DEPORTED to their place of origin, at their own expense. This, however, is not a waiver of any charge which may be filed against the individual for violation of the Revised Penal Code or other special law.”
(Source: City Government of Zamboanga Facebook page, photos courtesy of City Tourism Office)