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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Foreigners stranded in PH due to Middle East conflict granted visa extensions

Foreigners stranded in PH due to Middle East conflict granted visa extensions

Published Mar 13, 2026 01:14 pm
Foreigners stranded in the Philippines due to the Middle East conflict are granted automatic visa extensions, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said on Friday, March 13.
“This is the Philippine government’s simple way of extending relief not only to those directly affected by the ongoing hostilities in the Middle East, but also a compassionate gesture of support to stand in solidarity with the whole world during this difficult time of socio-economic and political upheavals,” said DOJ Secretary Fredderick A. Vida.
The automatic grant of visa relief to stranded foreigners was done through Department Order No. 159 series of 2026 that was issued by Vida last March 9.
Under the order, the DOJ said: “Foreigners whose visas expired last 28 February 2026 will be allowed to legally stay in the Philippines until 01 April 2026, without payment of any fees, fines and penalties.”
It was not known as of posting time how many foreigners have expired visas as of last Feb. 28.
The DOJ said the move was made following the mass cancellation of outbound flights due to the ongoing hostilities in the Middle East.
“This initiative underscores the Philippines’ commitment to humanity in times of global crisis,” it added.
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