'Friendlier' Immigration agents to be deployed in airports

MANILA, Philippines — Following controversies involving allegedly rude employees, the Bureau of Immigration said that it will deploy "friendlier, more customer-oriented" officers in airports in June.

Immigration Commissioner Siegfred Mison said that the new BI CARES program aims to create a more enviable environment for foreign and local travelers in international gateways.

"We will ensure that our visitors feel Filipino hospitality the moment they set foot in Manila, and this BI Cares program will continue with the country’s hosting of future international events," Mison said in a statement Monday.

Mison recently suspended an agent for manhandling an unruly Chinese national. He also condemned what he called an "abuse" when an Immigration supervisor shouted at an inquiring teacher.

Read: BI suspends agent over NAIA scuffle with unruly Chinese

Mison said that CARES, which stands for "courtesy, accountability, responsibility, efficiency and services," will maintain discipline in immigration counters.

He also called new officers under the program the Philippines' "brand ambassadors" for "being there whenever a traveler needs information."

The bureau said the new group comprise of selected and trained personnel who will be strict in implementing immigration laws while being diplomatic.

CARES will also aid in intensifying the government's campaign against human trafficking.

Also read: Unruly tourists, passengers to be handcuffed