The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has warned the public against private entities offering Hajj pilgrimage packages without proper authority.
The SEC said some groups are offering packages that include airfare, accommodation, transportation, visas, and tent accommodations despite lacking accreditation. These entities reportedly operate through physical offices and online platforms, misleading pilgrims into believing they are authorized.
The commission stressed that only the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), through its Bureau of Pilgrimage and Endowment, is legally authorized to administer Hajj-related programs under the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos Act of 2009.
While pilgrims may choose their travel agencies and airlines, travel agencies are only allowed to sell airline tickets and cannot organize or offer Hajj packages.
The SEC added that proposals to privatize Hajj administration are still pending in Congress. It urged the public to report unauthorized Hajj package offers to the NBI or PNP for possible criminal action.
