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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Enforcement of revised departure formalities for travelers abroad suspended -- IACAT

Enforcement of revised departure formalities for travelers abroad suspended -- IACAT

Published Aug 31, 2023 03:02 am

The Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) has decided to suspend the implementation of the 2023 Revised Guidelines on Departure Formalities for International-Bound Filipino Travelers amid public concerns that the guidelines violate the constitutional right to travel.

The Department of Justice (DOJ), the lead agency of IACAT, announced in a statement Thursday, Aug. 31, “the temporary suspension of the implementation of the recently revised guidelines on departure formalities.”

“We take this opportunity to remind everyone that the temporary suspension of the implementation of the revised guidelines on departure formalities does not affect existing laws and regulations governing travel and immigration procedures. All existing rules and guidelines remain in place until further notice,” the DOJ said.

It stressed that the primary objective of the revised guidelines is “to streamline the departure procedures and to ensure a more efficient and secure process for all individuals traveling abroad.”

“The revisions were not intended to burden the general public but rather to enhance the overall experience of departing passengers,” it said.

Last Wednesday, Aug. 30, the Senate adopted two resolutions that urged the IACAT to suspend the revised guidelines that is supposed to to be implemented starting Sept. 3.

The other Senate resolution authorized Senate President Miguel Zubiri to file a petition for a temporary restraining order (TRO) before the Supreme Court (SC) against implementation of the revised guidelines, if needed.

Due to the concerns raised by senators and to address the importance of transparency and public consultation, the DOJ said “the Secretary of Justice Jesus Crispin ‘Boying’ Remulla has deemed it necessary to thoroughly clarify the issues surrounding the revised guidelines to both the senators and the public.”

“The Department of Justice acknowledges the vital role of our esteemed senators as representatives of the people, entrusted with safeguarding the rights and welfare of our citizens. It is our duty to address their concerns and provide them with the necessary information and clarifications,” it said.

“The Department of Justice reaffirms its dedication to upholding the rights and welfare of all individuals, including the right to travel freely. We assure the public that the revised guidelines aim to strike a balance between national security and the facilitation of smooth and efficient travel,” it added.

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