BI names category of aliens that can enter PH starting May 1


The Bureau of Immigration (BI) says foreign nationals who were issued immigrant or non-immigrant visas may enter the Philippines starting Saturday, May 1.

(Photo from BI Facebook page)

"This was in compliance with the ruling of the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Infectious Diseases allowing the return to the country of foreign students, investors and workers," said BI Commissioner Jaime Morente.

Likewise, the BI chief said foreign nationals qualified under the Balikbayan Program may also avail of the entry privilege.

Morente said, however, that passengers coming from India, or those who have travel history with that country during the last 14 days were still barred from coming in a bid to stop the entry here of a highly infectious variant of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Except for diplomats and members of international organizations, arriving foreign passengers are still required to present pre-booked accommodation in quarantine-accredited hotels.

They are also subject to COVID-19 testing on the 6th day upon arrival.

BI port operations chief Carlos Capulong said they will continue implementing previous regulations on the presentation of pre-booked accommodation.

"Those who failed to present the documents will be boarded the next available flight back to their port of origin," he warned.