MANILA, Philippines—The National Bureau of Investigation is set to file charges against four people, including a dismissed employee of the Bureau of Immigration, for allegedly duping several people seeking tourist visas for the US and the United Kingdom.Assistant Regional Director Marianito Panganiban, head of the NBI Anti-Organized Crime Task Force, said on Thursday estafa charges were set to be filed at the Pasay CIty Prosecutor's Office against Teresita Vertudes, who according to NBI, was a dismissed employee of the BI; Margie Lustre; Theresa Santos; and Jeanette Santos, all employees of Tajh Tours and Travel on F.B. Harrison Street, Pasay City. Vertudes was arrested by bureau agents Tuesday, while her alleged cohorts remained at large as of Thursday, the NBI added. Prior to Vertudes' arrest, at least five people filed a complaint at the NBI against her and her cohorts. Investigation showed that the suspects promised to process the complainants' tourist visas for the US and United Kingdom. The suspects allegedly demanded and received almost P1.2 million from the complainants. The suspects vowed to provide the complainants' visas within one month. However, the suspects apparently failed to deliver and return the complainants' money despite repeated demands. This prompted the complainants to seek the help of the authorities. A verification made with the Visa Sections of the US and British Embassies showed no evidence that Tahj Tours and Travel processed the complainants' tourist visa applications. A record check conducted by the NBI likewise showed that Vertudes had several derogatory records, including alleged violation of Republic Act 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act), B.P. 22 (bouncing check law), estafa and illegal recruitment. The NBI, however, did not provide details on why Vertudes was dismissed from the BI. Records also showed that several warrants of arrest were issued against her. Vertudes was arrested after she was chanced upon by bureau agents who were trying to verify another warrant of arrest issued against her at the Pasay City Hall of Justice. | 
