With reference to the column “On Target” of Ramon Tulfo published on March 9, 2013, concerning the complaint of British national Martin Glass, we would like to point out the following.
1. Mr. and Mrs. Glass came to the Italian Embassy on Jan. 22, 2013, to lodge visa applications for Mrs. Glass and their children, Philippine passport holders. Their documents lacked the minimum requirements (valid and duly registered certificate of marriage to confirm the family status).
2. A few days later, Mr. Glass returned to the embassy, with documents still not in order. Staff of the Visa Section managed to talk to Mr. Glass’ wife over the phone trying to solve the problem, but was heavily insulted by Mrs. Glass.
3. On Feb. 11, Mr. Glass returned once again to the embassy; it was reiterated to him that unless valid and duly registered documents proving family relationship are produced, the Visa Office cannot evaluate the request for visas. He decided to withdraw the papers he had presented.
Our regulations, understandably, require a minimum standard of valid certifications of family relationship to evaluate visa issuance, particularly when minors are involved.
—MASSIMO ROSCIGNO
Italian ambassador to the Philippines