THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) closed 2024 with record-breaking travel figures and notable advancements in modernization, paving the way for streamlined processes and stronger border security in the coming years.
The BI reported a total of 14,540,533 arrivals comprising*7,922,052 Filipinos and 6,618,481 foreigners alongside 15,050,136 departures which included 8,348,283 Filipinos and 6,701,853 foreigners.
According to BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval, the robust numbers to the resurgence of international travel and the Philippines’ appeal as a premier destination, as a result of the Department of Tourism’s aggressive campaign to re-invite foreign tourists back to the country.
Among the Bureau’s accomplishments in 2024 was the successful implementation of label-free processing at electronic gates, providing faster access and electronic travel confirmation for Filipino travelers. The program, which has enhanced efficiency at key airports, is set to expand with the procurement of additional e-gates next year.
The BI’s vigilance in combating human trafficking has also contributed to maintaining the Philippines’ Tier 1 status in the 2024 US Department of State Trafficking in Persons Report. The Bureau exposed schemes involving fake pilgrimages, mail-order brides, and illegal surrogacy.
Sandoval said the BI’s immigration protection and border enforcement section (I-PROBES) reported a total of 998 trafficking victims referred to the inter-agency council against trafficking, as well as 215 Filipinos referred to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) for illegal recruitment.
The Bureau’s efforts to deny entry to sex tourists led to the exclusion of 140 sex offenders in 2024.
She said that in collaboration with government agencies, the BI has remained steadfast in addressing child exploitation and abuse. This year, report mechanisms such as the Commissioner’s helpline as well as the Makabata Helpline 1383 of the Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) was launched to report cases involving foreign nationals suspected of crimes against children.
Other notable accomplishments include the inauguration of three additional forensic document laboratories at major international airports, bringing the total to six. These facilities bolster border security by ensuring the authenticity of travel documents and support immigration offices nationwide. The Bureau also prioritized partnerships with government agencies, enhancing interoperability and data sharing to create a seamless framework for addressing illegal activities and improving border management.
The Cruise Visa Waiver initiative further positioned the Philippines as a premier cruise destination by streamlining entry processes for international passengers. Online applications for student visas and special study permits were also introduced to provide more convenient options for travelers.
Sandoval said that through innovation and collaboration, the BI is setting the stage for a new era of Philippine immigration and moving towards a “Bagong Immigration:, in line with the President’s vision of a “Bagong Pilipinas.”
