The Bureau of Immigration warned foreign vloggers in the country not to engage in any activity violating the conditions of their stay.
Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente stated that he issued the reminder after noticing numerous foreign vloggers posting videos in the Philippines.
According to Morente, while vlogging in itself is not prohibited, engaging in endorsements or using their platforms to sell products could be considered a violation of the conditions of their stay.
“Online videos of these influencers bring entertainment to many, which could be a source of much-needed relief from the stress brought about by the pandemic. Vloggers promoting the beautiful places in our country could even help revive and boost tourism,” he said.
“However, vlogging should not be used as a means to sell products. Accepting local endorsements, selling products, and engaging in other activities for profit while holding a temporary visitors’ visa is considered a deportable offense,” he warned.
“Vloggers should not overstep their boundaries and perform actions only within the activities allowed in their visas. If found guilty, violators can face deportation and blacklisting from the Philippines,” he added.
In February, a social media influencer was charged by the BI for performing in gainful activity without permit or visa, after allegedly engaging in the online retail of notebooks, bags, and toiletries.
Similarly in India, New Zealand Youtuber Karl Rock has recently made headlines after he was reportedly denied entry and blacklisted for violating the terms and conditions of his visa for doing business activities on a tourist visa.