Originally posted by peterdavid@Feb 3 2005, 10:06 PM
Yes, I think ECOs are deliberately obstructive, especially in cases where the english guy has been living in England and the filipina in the philippines.



The British embassy in manila does not make one proud to be British. It makes one quite ashamed.
I'm still annoyed at the Embassy for being so picky about our visa application. I spent months researching the correct procedures for applying for the visa, I got info and advice from this discussion group and others like it, I took great care that all documents were complete and correct, and still it wasnt enough.

Just before I left Manila 2 days ago (i extended my stay till 16th by the way - couldnt bear to leave the Philippines ) I returned to the Embassy to ask on progress. Now because of security, I was forced to call one of the ECO's from the downstairs lobby (I was not even allowed into my own Embassy!&#33, and I was given a predictable answer "Sir the issue of your wifes visa has been deferred until local checks are completed. We will call your wife in about 3 - 5 weeks".

While I cant give the exact reasons why the other 47 people were denied visas, it seems from what Elsa told me, it was more to do with insufficent/incorrect paperwork, and indeed many of the applicants were for tourist/family visas. She told me that in most cases, the applicant was called to Room 6 or Room 2, and were informed straight off, "I deny your request for a visa" then sent on their way. I can understand how some of those applicants got quite angry - what a way to treat people in this day. :unsure: