TRAVEL restrictions to enter the Philippines are still in effect as the pandemic continues, the country’s Bureau of Immigration (BI) reminded the public on Wednesday, October 7.
Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente stressed that only Filipinos, their foreign spouses and children who are minors are allowed to enter the country.
Likewise, foreign children with special needs of Filipinos, foreign parents of minor Filipinos, and foreign parents of Filipino children with special needs may enter the country.
Morente also said that foreigners are required to secure an entry visa from Philippine embassies or consulates prior to their arrival.
The reminders came after an online petition urged the government to allow foreigners to reunite with their Filipino partners.
“We acknowledge the petition of the #LoveisNotTourism movement, and we understand how difficult it must be to be separated from your loved one,” Morente said.
“But this is a temporary measure. We trust the wisdom of the IATF (Inter-Agency Task Force), and we are ready to implement immediately, should there be any changes in travel restrictions,” he added.
Morente also reminded that only foreigners, overseas Filipino workers, permanent visa holders, students enrolled abroad, participants in exchange visitor programs, and those travelling for essential reasons like medical emergencies are allowed to leave the country.
“Visiting relatives abroad for a vacation is still not considered under essential travel,” he stressed.
“These restrictions were set by the IATF to protect everyone from the threat of COVID-19. If your travel is non-essential, it is best to defer it when the pandemic has subsided,” he added.
This is crazy. I have a 4 month old son and can’t go see him. Whats even more crazy is the 14 day quarantine someone has to do as well. Well I’m not a retired person and I still work. My max vacation time is 2 weeks. So why should someone have to do all their vacation in quarantine! The only thing this is creating is more and more Filipinos have took took to Facebook and dating sites begging foriegn people for money
I cant see my Fiancee and it’s really messing with our relationship. It’s how long are we gonna have to wait. Been waiting almost a year to get back there and now they are trying to say we cant go till the 2nd quarter. I dont see any difference on how they are really protecting anyone. Since they have there strict rules and people still get the virus anyways.