We’ve previously written about what happened with Tony Labrusca in airport immigration. Reports placed him contesting his 30-day tourist Visa and demanding more from immigration officers.
In response to this, the Bureau of Immigration released a statement clarifying the reasons they were forced to give a tourist Visa instead of the Balikbayan Visa, which would have afforded Labrusca a longer stay in the Philippines. Essentially, it came down to the privilege only being given to former Filipinos or immediate family members who are traveling with them.
Tony Labrusca now shares his side of what happened on his personal Twitter. He states:
“I want to extend my sincerest apology to the superior immigration officer (I.O.) who was on duty and I had a talk with yesterday morning, 03 Jan 2019.
After lining up and crossing the immigration, I went up to the superior IO and we ended up going inside an enclosed space inside her office to discuss privately. I admit I was a bit frustrated and that I asked why I was only given 30 days to stay in the country this time. I was unaware of the policy that because I was not with my mother, I did not qualify for a Balikbayan stamp.
It was very upsetting for me. And I’m sorry that I somehow took my frustrations out on the Officer. But never did I ever call anyone stupid, nor an idiotic much less brag about being a celebrity. I know for a fact that the officer is merely doing her job. My biggest mistake perhaps was letting my emotions get the better of me and again I’m sorry.
It was a long flight from Canada and while it is not a perfect excuse, i would like to start this year fresh both in my life and the people I’ve encountered with. Once again, I am deeply sorry for my reaction.”
What do you think about this issue? Let us know in the comments!
