BI issues clarification on P480 'advanced border security system' fee
The Bureau of Immigration has clarified the news circulating that they will begin collecting a P480 fee from travelers for a new and improved border security system in the country.
In a release on the agency's website, Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado reassured travelers that no additional fee is currently being imposed as he clarified that the Civil Aviation and Immigration Security Services Project has still not been approved.
"The reports were based on a proposal that has not yet received the final approvals," he said.
According to him, the proposed user fee component of the CAISS is still going through a comprehensive review and stakeholder consultation process on whether it is "necessary, reasonable, and justified."
"We recognize the importance of modernizing our border management infrastructure to better combat transnational crimes, human trafficking, terrorism, and other emerging security threats," he said.
"At the same time, we understand the sentiments of our kababayan, especially during challenging economic times. Any proposal that may affect travelers financially must undergo proper review, consultation, and clear public communication," he added.
Apart from this, they will also review improvements that could be done in passenger convenience and processing efficiency, safeguards for data privacy and cybersecurity, and transparency and accountability mechanisms throughout the project’s implementation.
Although the Bureau backs efforts to modernize border security and improve national safety measures, Viado stressed that any proposed passenger fee should first undergo thorough evaluation to determine its possible effects on travelers.
"Hindi natin dapat biglain ang publiko sa mga panukalang may dagdag na epekto sa kanilang gastusin. Mahalaga ang seguridad ng ating borders, pero mahalaga ring maramdaman ng taumbayan na pinapakinggan at isinasaalang-alang ang kanilang kalagayan," he said.
"Layunin nating magkaroon ng mas ligtas at mas modernong border control system, ngunit dapat itong maisakatuparan sa paraang malinaw, makatarungan, at may tiwala ang publiko. Tiyakin muna nating lubusang napag-aralan at maipaliwanag ito nang maayos sa ating mga kababayan," he continued.
Under the CAISS plan, the BI aims to "enhance immigration operations through advanced biometric systems, real-time risk assessment, data integration, and automated border control technologies."
However, it will charge passengers leaving and entering the country a user fee of $4, equivalent to P240 at the current exchange rate (one way). That’s a total of $8 or P480 for a passenger traveling roundtrip between the Philippines and elsewhere.
The move triggered a public outcry, notably from actress Sharlene San Pedro and digital marketer Carlo Ople.
