Immigration Bureau Coordinates with Three Countries for Data Sharing to Prevent Entry of Foreign Fugitives in the Philippines
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has recently announced its collaboration with three countries in a data sharing agreement aimed at preventing foreign fugitives from entering the Philippines. This move is part of the BI’s efforts to strengthen border security and combat international crime.
The announcement was made by Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco during the first year anniversary of the Manila City Hall Reporter’s Association’s (MACHRA) “Balitaan sa Harbor View”. Tansingco highlighted the importance of this initiative in obtaining relevant information about foreign nationals who have pending cases in their respective countries and are considered flight risks.
Although the specific countries involved in the data sharing agreement were not disclosed, Tansingco emphasized the mutual benefits that this collaboration would bring to the Philippines as well as the participating nations. He stated, “Para hindi na sila makapasok (To prevent fugitives from entering the country). Makakatulong ito sa ating bansa, makakatulong din sa kanilang bansa (It will help our country and the other countries)”.
By obtaining information on fugitives in advance, the BI aims to prevent them from evading justice in their home countries. Currently, there are approximately 157 countries whose nationals are allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa. Once the BI completes a record of these fugitives, they will be able to promptly block their entry into the country.
This data sharing agreement is a significant step forward in enhancing border security and international cooperation in combating crime. With the collaboration between the Philippines and these three countries, authorities hope to effectively prevent foreign fugitives from seeking refuge in the country.
