MANILA - The Australian Embassy in Manila has denied reports claiming that Filipinos can enter Australia visa-free beginning 2017.

In a statement on their official website, the Embassy emphasized that Filipino visitors still need to apply for an Australian visa before being allowed entry.

"The Embassy is aware of a hoax/scam suggesting that visa-free options for Filipino nationals will be available from January 2017. This is a scam and potential travelers to Australia must have a valid Australian visa," it said.

The article being disproved by the Embassy cited an alleged bilateral visa agreement between the Australian and Philippine governments to simplify travel barriers between the two countries.

Correct instructions for Filipinos intending to travel to Australia are available on the embassy's website.