BI modernizes border security

THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) detailed its ongoing border security modernization efforts during a regional immigration meeting in Brunei last week, highlighting new digital systems aimed at streamlining travel while tightening security.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado led the Philippine delegation to the 28th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Directors-General of Immigration Departments and Heads of Consular Affairs Divisions of Ministries of Foreign Affairs Meeting, held from Aug. 12 to 14 in Bandar Seri Begawan.

The annual forum brings together Southeast Asian officials to discuss immigration and border management issues.

Among the projects presented were the Advance Passenger Information System, Cruise Visa Waiver program, eServices portal, eTravel system, and electronic gates.

The bureau also reported progress on the Civil Aviation and Immigration Security Services Project, developed to strengthen airport and seaport security.

The BI, in coordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs, also briefed delegates on the Digital Nomad Visa and the planned e-Visa system, measures aimed at attracting foreign travelers and remote workers while maintaining tighter oversight.

Apart from the main gathering, the Philippine delegation took part in the ASEAN forums on immigration intelligence, human smuggling, and checkpoint operations, and held bilateral consultations with immigration counterparts from Australia, China, Japan, and South Korea. — Chloe Mari A. Hufana