The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Wednesday reminded departing international passengers to check-in at least three hours prior to their flight.
BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco issued the reminder in response to a viral complaint of a male passenger who alleged that he was left by his flight due to the conduct of secondary inspection.
“Upon verification with systems, it was confirmed that he checked in only one hour and 27 minutes prior to the boarding of his flight,” said Tansingco. “He was able to present himself for primary inspection only 12 minutes prior to boarding time,” he added.
Secondary inspection is a standard security protocol conducted for passengers who may have exhibited cautionary indicators, as part of the BI’s role under the Department of Justice – Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking or IACAT.
“Our officers are trained to conduct inspections with efficiency and respect for passengers’ time, while also ensuring the utmost attention to security protocols,” said Tansingco.
He then expressed his appreciation to airport authorities for expanding the immigration area.
The BI shared that last year, its operations at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 had 26 counters, but with the expansions done by the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), the number rose to 42 working stations.
“This improvement, as well as the anticipated further expansion of the immigration area, will definitely allow us to add more immigration officers to service arriving and departing passengers,” he stated.
Int’l passengers reminded to check-in 3 hours prior to flight – BI
Meanwhile, the Bureau of Immigration (bi) on Wednesday officially launched their eServices, designed to transform the way clients engage with immigration services.
IIn a ceremony held at the BI’s main office in Intramuros, Manila, Commissioner Norman Tansingco shared that with the new platform, immigration procedures are set to become more efficient and convenient for foreign tourists.
“They can now swiftly and securely complete their necessary immigration applications end-to-end online,” said Tansingco.
Applicants for waiver of exclusion grounds for arriving unaccompanied minors, emigration clearance certificate, and dual citizenship under RA 9225 may now submit their applications online.
“Apart from these transactions, we are also excited to launch the online visa waiver and the tourist visa extension,” said Tansingco.
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