By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Four Boracay-bound tourists were arrested last Monday, June 7, at Malay, Aklan after they allegedly presented tampered reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test results.

Authorities have not identified the four individuals, except that they were reported to be residents of Negros Occidental.

According to reports, the four were about to enter the popular holiday destination via the Tabon jetty port in the town’s Barangay Caticlan when the port employee discovered the RT-PCR test results presented by the tourists were tampered.

Authorities immediately arrested the four and an extraction team brought them to Kalibo, Aklan to undergo quarantine.

The four were also subjected to RT-PCR test.

The provincial government of Aklan had already issued repeated warnings to tourists not to present fake or tampered RT-PCR test results.

Tourists who violate the order could face criminal charges related to Republic Act 11332, or the mandatory reporting of communicable disease act, as well as falsification of documents under the Revised Penal Code.

Furthermore, violators could also be declared “persona-non-grata” by the local government of Malay and they will no longer be allowed to enter the town or Boracay island in the future.
In response to the incident, Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office spokesperson Lt. Abegael Donasco said they have not monitored any individuals or groups who are creating/offering fake RT-PCR test results to Negrense travelers.

Donasco also advised Negrense travelers not to tamper their RT-PCR test results.

“If mahuhuli kayo you can face charges involving RA 11332 or the mandatory reporting of communicable disease act, as well as falsification of public documents,” Donasco said.

She further added that there is a possibility that those who tampered their test results and later found positive for COVID-19 can face further criminal charges./DGB, WDJ