The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is taking significant steps towards modernization to ensure that international travel remains smooth and seamless, especially with the expected surge in tourist arrivals. Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco recently emphasized the need for implementing more projects to expedite processes and operations in line with international practices.
With the Department of Tourism’s aggressive campaign to attract more tourists, Tansingco anticipates a rise in the number of visitors. To accommodate this influx, the BI has outlined a medium-term plan that includes replacing 25 percent of manual operations with electronic gates by 2024. By 2026, they aim to have half of their operations conducted electronically. This transition will not only enhance efficiency but also align the BI with global standards.
Expanding e-services is another key objective for the bureau. Currently, tourists can already extend their visas online, a convenient feature that encourages more travelers to explore the diverse tourist destinations in the country. By offering additional e-services, the BI aims to further streamline immigration transactions, ensuring a seamless experience for both tourists and residents.
In a bid to attract more cruise ships to choose the Philippines as their destination, Tansingco announced that the bureau is finalizing the requirements for a more seamless immigration process for cruise tourists. This initiative aims to simplify the immigration procedures for cruise passengers, making it more appealing for cruise liners to include the Philippines in their itineraries. This move has the potential to significantly boost tourism and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
To support these ambitious goals, Tansingco expressed his optimism that the proposed BI modernization law will be passed this year. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has already expressed his support for the measure, signaling a promising development. The passing of this law would be a crucial step towards enhancing the nation’s infrastructure and strengthening the country’s position as a preferred tourist destination.
In his second State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reiterated the importance of passing the new law to foster nation-building. This commitment from the highest level of government underscores the significance of modernizing the BI and its role in facilitating international travel.
The ongoing efforts to modernize the Bureau of Immigration demonstrate the government’s commitment to providing a seamless and efficient travel experience for both tourists and residents. By embracing electronic systems, expanding e-services, and simplifying immigration procedures, the BI aims to enhance the overall travel experience and position the Philippines as a welcoming destination for visitors from around the world. With the proposed BI modernization law on the horizon, there is a renewed sense of optimism for the future of international travel in the country.
Source: The Manila Times
