Ombudsman Boying Remulla has accused the Department of Foreign Affairs, (DFA) of treating visa issuance as a business, citing alleged arrangements between Philippine embassies in China and travel agencies. He also questioned the screening of foreign nationals entering the Philippines and called for changes to the system.
During his October 24 DZRH program, Remulla criticized the department headed by Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, who was appointed by President Bongbong Marcos in July 2025.
“Ang problema ng DFA, they forget that their primary job is to be diplomats. Eh dito iba ‘yung gusto nilang mangyari, gusto nilang magnegosyo,” Remulla said.
He claimed that visa processing in China had generated substantial earnings through travel agencies allegedly subjected to quotas. He also accused the DFA of imposing restrictions that made it difficult for legitimate foreign investors to enter the Philippines.
Remulla proposed transferring administrative visa services to VFS Global, a private provider, and giving the Department of Justice greater involvement in background checks on foreign applicants.
The DFA rejected his allegations on Monday, October 26, citing its authority under the Administrative Code of 1987 and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.
It maintained that private firms may assist with administrative requirements, but visa approvals and denials remain government consular functions. The department also denied tolerating corruption and defended the integrity of its personnel.
Remulla had raised similar concerns in November 2023 while serving as justice secretary, when he ordered an investigation into allegedly irregular visas issued to Chinese nationals. Nearly three years later, he has renewed his objections as Ombudsman, this time directly questioning the DFA’s handling of visa applications.
