Recently, a social media post went viral showing long lines at the immigration area at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 on the evening of 24 February 2023. According to the post, there were only three counters open which assisted hundreds of passengers.
Bureau of Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco said that upon verification with the BI-NAIA T3 management, 21 immigration officers were on duty during that period, to process 15 flights with a load of approximately 3,900 passengers.
While the BI has maximized its manpower complement, the issue of long lines remains a worldwide concern as countries open up its borders.
“We are thankful to the Manila International Airport Authority for committing to increase the space allocation for the immigration area in the next few months. We are likewise grateful for the support of the airlines in studying flight schedules to minimize overlapping of flights,” he said/
“On our end, the BI commits to explore the use of additional electronic gates to lessen processing times. The e-travel portal for departing passengers will likewise be launched in March, which will decrease paper-based forms for passengers,” Tansingco added.
BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval said that for overseas Filipino workers, Overseas Employment Certificates (OECs) will soon be integrated in the e-travel portal for their convenience.
Departing passengers are reminded to check in at least three hours prior to their flight, and are advised to proceed directly to the immigration area upon check-in, to experience a more seamless travel, she explained.
The BI remains committed in providing the most efficient, innovative, and effective immigration service, added Sandoval.
