Why dealing with fixers could lead to airport offloading

Dubai: Filipinos planning to travel abroad have been warned against dealing with fixers offering to process Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) requirements for a fee.

Authorities have stressed that such shortcuts can lead to offloading at the airport, where passengers are prevented from boarding due to incomplete or questionable documentation.

In a Facebook post, CFO has explained that immigration officers routinely verify certificates on official records. Documents that have been obtained through fixers are often falsified, unverifiable, or not registered in the system.

This discrepancy can trigger red flags, resulting in travellers being denied departure despite having booked flights and completed other requirements.

CFO procedures include the pre-departure orientation seminar and guidance and counselling programme, both of which are prerequisites.

Fixers may claim to fast-track or bypass these steps. However, failure to properly complete and register these programmes can lead to complications at the airport, including offloading.

The commission has stressed that these requirements have been in place to protect Filipinos from human trafficking, illegal recruitment, and other forms of exploitation.

According to CFO, registration and appointment booking are entirely free.

“There are no ‘authorised agents’ recognised by our office, so you should never give money for any ‘processing fee’ or ‘slot fee’ to unofficial pages,” said CFO in Filipino.

“Above all, proper registration with us serves as your connection to the Philippines even while you are abroad. Through this, it becomes easier for you to access government programmes, benefits, and assistance in case of emergencies overseas.”

Meanwhile, the CFO has urged travellers to rely only on official platforms when arranging CFO requirements.

Avoiding fixers not only protects finances but also ensures a smoother, hassle-free departure.