Common Name, Big Problem? How a 'Certificate of Not Same Person' Can Save Your Overseas Trip

Klook Team

Last updated 9 Jul 2025

You’ve booked your flights, planned your itinerary, and packed your bags. The excitement for your first trip abroad, a family vacation, or a new job overseas is at its peak. You hand your passport to the immigration officer, only to be told, "Sir/Ma'am, please step aside. May 'hit' po kayo."

For many Filipinos, this is a travel nightmare turned reality. The culprit? Having a name that is identical or similar to someone on the government's derogatory list. If your name is Juan dela Cruz, Maria Santos, or any of the hundreds of common Filipino names, you are at a higher risk of being flagged.

But don't cancel your travel plans just yet. There is a crucial document that can clear this up: the Certificate of Not Same Person (NTSP). This guide will walk you through what it is, why you might need it, and how to get one.

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Why Your Common Filipino Name Can Be a Travel Nightmare

The Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) maintains several lists to secure national safety and enforce the law. These include the:

Hold Departure Order (HDO): Issued by courts to prevent a person from leaving the country.
Watchlist Order (WLO): For individuals under investigation for criminal or other serious cases.
Blacklist Order (BLO): For foreign nationals who have violated immigration laws.

When you go through immigration, the officer checks your name against these lists. If your name matches someone on the list, a "hit" occurs. The system doesn't immediately know that you, Juan P. dela Cruz the tourist, are different from Juan V. dela Cruz the person with a pending case. This is where the delay—and potential for a missed flight—happens.

What Exactly is a Certificate of Not Same Person (NTSP)?

A Certificate of Not Same Person is an official document issued by the Bureau of Immigration. It formally certifies that you are not the same individual who is on their derogatory list (HDO, WLO, or BLO).

Think of it as your official "get out of jail free" card for a case of mistaken identity. It's a proactive measure to prove your clean record and differentiate yourself from a namesake with legal issues.

When Do You Need This Certificate?

While not everyone needs one, you should strongly consider getting an NTSP if:

You have been stopped or delayed at immigration before due to a name match.
You have a very common Filipino name and want to prevent any potential issues.
An employment agency or future employer requires it for overseas work (OFW).
You are applying for a government position that requires immigration clearance.

How to Get Your Certificate of Not Same Person (Based on Official Checklist)

Getting your NTSP requires careful preparation of very specific documents. Generic clearances are not enough. Based on the official checklist (BI Form No. CCS-A-NSTP-2016), here is the precise, step-by-step process.

Pre-Step: Identify the Source of Your 'Hit'

Before you can gather your documents, you must first find out which court or agency issued the derogatory order against your namesake. You can inquire about this at the Bureau of Immigration Main Office. Knowing this is critical for the next step.

Step 1: Gather the Exact Documentary Requirements

Move beyond general lists and focus on these three mandatory items as per the official checklist:

Duly Accomplished Application Form (BI Form No. CCS-A-NSTP-2016)

This specific form must be completed. You can likely download it from the Bureau of Immigration website or get a copy at the BI Main Office.

Signed and Sealed Court Clearance (The Most Crucial Document)

This is not a generic clearance. You must obtain it from the specific court or government agency that issued the Warrant of Arrest, Order, or Letter Request that placed your namesake on the derogatory list. Crucially, the clearance MUST CERTIFY WITH CERTAINTY that you (the applicant) are NOT THE SAME PERSON as the Accused or Respondent in their case files. They will likely verify this through a process of elimination based on middle names, birthdates, addresses, or other identifiers.

NBI Clearance

This is required specifically for applicants whose names have a hit against a BLACK LIST ORDER (BLO) or a WATCHLIST ORDER (WLO). If your hit is a different type, this may not be required, but it's always best to confirm.

Step 2: File Your Application at the BI Main Office

As of now, applications for the NTSP are processed at the Bureau of Immigration Main Office in Intramuros, Manila.

Proceed to the designated window for the Certificate of Not Same Person.
Submit your complete documents for verification. The officer will check if your name indeed has a match on their list.
Once verified, you will be given an Order of Payment Slip (OPS).
Pay the required fees at the cashier and keep the official receipt.

Step 3: Claim Your Certificate

The processing time can vary. You will be advised on when you can claim your certificate. Be sure to bring your official receipt and a valid ID when you return to claim it.

Pro-Tips for a Smoother Application

Check the BI Website First: Before you go, always check the official Bureau of Immigration website for the most updated list of requirements, fees, and procedures.
Arrive Early: Government offices can have long queues. Arriving early gives you the best chance to finish the process within the day.
Prepare Extra Copies: Have at least one extra set of all your documents.
Use a Representative: If you cannot apply personally, you can authorize a representative through a Special Power of Attorney (SPA).

Travel with Confidence

Don't let a common name stand between you and your travel dreams. Securing a Certificate of Not Same Person is a small investment of time and effort that provides immense peace of mind. It's a powerful document that ensures your identity is clear, allowing you to walk up to the immigration counter with confidence, ready for your next adventure.