DOT, BI issues warning on Holy Week tourist scams

The Department of Tourism urged the public to only avail of accredited tourist services and subscribe to credible sources while traveling for the Holy Week.

In a statement on Saturday, DOT explained that accredited services ensured quality operations in line with the department’s minimum standards.

They also warned the public to be cautious of unverified information on social media “to avoid falling victim to scams targeting tourists, such as fake accommodation, travel tickets, vacation deals, among others.”

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Immigration warned against scammers charging up to P5,000 in alleged eTravel registration fees and other forms of Holy Week travel scams.

“We advise the traveling public to be cautious and register exclusively on the official government website, or through the eGovPH application. The eTravel registration process is absolutely free of charge,” stated BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco.

He also encouraged the public to report fraudulent websites or entities charging for said services through the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) hotline 1326.

eTravel kiosks are also available in major international airports. — DVM, GMA Integrated News