MANILA — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has addressed a viral social media post involving an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) family who reportedly failed to board their flight to Dubai from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3.

According to the BI, initial verification of airport records showed that the passengers arrived at the immigration area at 10:51 a.m.—only nine minutes before their 11:00 a.m. boarding time.

The OFW couple and their child were immediately cleared for departure. However, their companion—allegedly their household helper—was referred for secondary inspection after it was found that she held a tourist visa and had a different travel itinerary.

BI officers advised the family to proceed directly to the boarding gate, but they opted to wait for their companion. Immigration personnel reportedly made every effort to assist the woman, accommodating her for secondary inspection despite other passengers in queue.

The BI said she submitted her inspection form at 11:43 a.m. and was cleared 12 minutes later.

The agency reiterated its reminder for passengers to arrive early and allow enough time for immigration processing—at least three hours before their scheduled flight—and to ensure completion of pre-departure requirements, including the eTravel registration, which can be done 48 hours before departure.

The Bureau also noted that the OFW couple were frequent travelers and should be familiar with travel documentation and clearance procedures.

“Our officers have the responsibility to verify the authenticity and sufficiency of travel documents. We appeal to the public to allot sufficient time for inspection and to ensure that all requirements are complete before reaching the counter,” said BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado.

He also warned travelers against taking photos or videos within immigration areas, citing possible violations of airport regulations and security protocols that could lead to administrative or legal consequences.

Viado emphasized the importance of mutual respect between travelers and frontliners to ensure a smooth and orderly airport experience.

“The protection of passengers and the integrity of our borders are top priorities. We urge the public to travel prepared, as cooperation and compliance help make the process faster and smoother for everyone,” he said.