MANILA — An Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) couple based in Italy was temporarily blacklisted from Philippine government services, including Immigration, following a heated exchange with staff at the Philippine Consulate in Rome during a transaction for dual citizenship, prompting intervention from Senator Raffy Tulfo.
The couple, June and Lacilda Presto, claimed they were asked to leave the consulate shortly after submitting documents, allegedly without a clear explanation of deficiencies in their application. The incident reportedly occurred in May 2024.
Dispute During Consular Transaction
According to the couple, they took time off from work to attend their scheduled appointment but were informed within minutes that their documents were invalid or incomplete. They alleged that the consular staff failed to properly review all submitted documents and did not clearly explain updated requirements.
The situation escalated when the couple expressed frustration over what they described as inadequate assistance. They admitted to raising their voices during the exchange.
Following the incident, the couple said they were later informed that they had been placed on a blacklist, preventing them from accessing Philippine government services and from traveling to the Philippines.
Consulate’s Explanation
Officials from the Philippine Consulate in Rome stated that the blacklist was issued due to what they described as rude and disruptive behavior toward consular staff and other clients.
Consul General Randy Orkiza said the couple allegedly shouted and used offensive language, prompting the consulate to follow internal procedures, including recommending their inclusion in a visa lookout list through the Bureau of Immigration and the Office of Consular Affairs (OCA).
The consulate added that the couple later submitted a written apology and personally apologized to the staff involved.
Senate Questions Legal Basis
The issue was raised during a televised discussion where Senator Raffy Tulfo, chair of the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers, questioned the legal basis for extending the blacklist beyond the consulate level.
Tulfo emphasized that while inappropriate behavior inside government offices should be addressed, there is no law authorizing a nationwide blacklist or immigration ban solely due to a verbal altercation.
He further stated that internal circulars or procedures should not override citizens’ fundamental rights, particularly the right to return to the country.
Blacklist Recommended for Lifting
During the discussion, officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Bureau of Immigration confirmed that the consulate had already recommended the lifting of the blacklist, pending final confirmation from Manila.
Once cleared, the consulate said it would proceed with accepting the couple’s application for dual citizenship.
Broader Concerns Raised
The incident has renewed concerns over the treatment of OFWs in overseas Philippine posts, particularly regarding:
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clarity of requirements
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communication with applicants
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handling of disputes inside consular offices
Tulfo noted that similar complaints have been raised in the past and called for improved professionalism and patience among public servants dealing with migrant workers.
Conclusion
While authorities stressed the importance of maintaining order and respect within government offices, the case highlighted the need to ensure that disciplinary actions remain proportionate and within legal bounds.
The incident remains under review as the lifting of the blacklist awaits final approval.
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