A total of 36 personnel from the Bureau of Immigration (BI), participated in a specialized training session at Davao International Airport (DIA) last June 27.
The training, focused on impostor detection and passenger assessment, was conducted by officials from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Attendees were immigration officers and technical officers of the BI assigned at the DIA.
Greg Fiddy, CBSA International Network Manager for Asia Pacific South, and Ms. Lisa Harding, CBSA Temporary Duty Liaison Officer, conducted the session which focused on detecting and preventing fraudulent travel using impostor detection techniques.
BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco highlighted the importance of the training in enhancing the skills of BI personnel.
“This training is crucial for improving our border management capabilities,” Tansingco stated. “The expertise shared by the CBSA will help our officers better detect impostors and assess passengers effectively.”
The training covered essential techniques in impostor detection and passenger assessment, providing BI officers with practical tools to strengthen the Philippines’ border security.
“Effective border management is key to national security,” Tansingco emphasized. “Investing in the training of our personnel ensures that we are prepared to address potential threats at our borders.”
Tansingco also pointed out the value of international cooperation in border security. “Our collaboration with the CBSA demonstrates the importance of global partnerships in enhancing border management,” he said. “We appreciate the contributions of the Canadian government in enhancing the capabilities of our frontliners.”
Meanwhile, the BI announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Australian government, focusing on cooperation in migration management and border control.
Tansingco highlighted the significance of the MOU during an event held on June 5 in Makati. “This agreement marks a pivotal moment in our bilateral relations,” Tansingco stated. “By working closely with the Australian Department of Home Affairs, we are strengthening our commitment to better migration management and regional security.”
The MOU aims to enhance practical cooperation and support regional efforts to facilitate legitimate travel. Both parties are dedicated to streamlining procedures for lawful movement while implementing safeguards to prevent illegal migration. “Our collaboration will help deter terrorist movements, combat people smuggling, and address transnational crimes,” Tansingco emphasized.
The framework established by the MOU allows both governments to collaborate on matters of mutual interest and responsibility. “This agreement sets the stage for ongoing cooperation in identifying, preventing, and prosecuting organizers of trafficking and escorts of irregular migrants,” Tansingco explained.
A key component of the MOU is the exchange of intelligence information on current modi operandi, including operating procedures, transit routes, and travel modes. “Sharing intelligence is crucial in our joint efforts to combat illegal activities and enhance border security,” Tansingco noted.
The MOU is part of the Philippines-Australia Plan of Action (POA) 2023-2026 which supports the Joint Declaration signed by Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Manila last 8 September 2023, which elevated the countries’ bilateral relationship to a Strategic Partnership.
“The Plan of Action provides a clear roadmap to implement the commitments outlined in the Joint Declaration, reinforcing our strategic partnership.
