By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

At least five travelers bound for Negros Occidental were intercepted at the Bredco Port and the Bacolod-Silay Airport for allegedly showing fake travel documents.

Four of the travelers originating from Manila were caught at the Bredco Port in Bacolod City for fake COVID-19 vaccination cards, while a traveler bound for Himamaylan City was caught with a fake negative RT-PCR test result.

Bacolod City Emergency Operations Center Executive Director Em Ang said the four individuals they caught at the city’s port were immediately placed on quarantine and will be subjected to RT-PCR tests.

The four also used Sagay City addresses.

Ang said their case has also been referred to the City Legal Office, wherein they could face criminal charges.

Dr. Zeaphard Caelian, head of the Negros Occidental Provincial Incident Management Team, meanwhile, said the Himamaylan-bound traveler who was intercepted at the airport had also been placed on quarantine and will be subjected to an RT-PCR test.

Previously, provincial administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz warned travelers not to use fake vaccination cards or certificates and fake negative RT-PCR test results, pointing out that they will immediately be confined at a quarantine facility and undergo swab tests at their own expense.

Diaz also warned that those caught with fake vaccination cards or RT-PCR test results can face criminal charges./DGB, WDJ