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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider BI vows closer partnership with ASEAN counterparts for stronger border protection

BI vows closer partnership with ASEAN counterparts for stronger border protection

Published Aug 17, 2025 01:49 pm
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has vowed to pursue closer partnerships with its counterparts in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to better protect the borders of the Philippines.
“We will not stop in our work to secure our borders from external threats,” said BI Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado in a statement issued on Sunday, August 17.
Viado led the BI delegation in the recently concluded 28th ASEAN Directors-General of Immigration Departments and Heads of Consular Affairs Divisions of Ministries of Foreign Affairs Meeting (DGICM) and its related sessions held in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam.
He said the BI’s participation in the DGICM was a show of the Philippines’ continued commitment to advancing border protection, strengthening collaboration with ASEAN partners, and promoting the safe and seamless movement of people across the region.
The BI said that DGICM is the annual gathering of ASEAN’s top immigration and consular officials to strengthen regional cooperation on border management, immigration, and consular affairs.
During the event, the bureau showcased its ongoing modernization programs designed to safeguard Philippine borders and contribute to the region’s collective security.
Showcased were the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS), Cruise Visa Waiver program, eServices portal, eTravel system, electronic gates, and the Civil Aviation and Immigration Security Services Project.
The BI said the delegation also reported on initiatives such as the Digital Nomad Visa and the e-Visa system which the bureau has been working on along with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and are aimed to enhance travel facilitation while maintaining strong security measures.
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