BI: Travel restrictions still in effect

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) reiterated yesterday that travel restrictions are still in effect in the country amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said foreigners with no valid reason to travel to the Philippines are barred from entry.

“Generally speaking, only Filipinos, their spouses and minor children are allowed to enter the country using tourist visas,” Morente said in a statement.

While some foreigners are exempted from entry restrictions, they are required to secure an entry visa from Philippine embassies or consulates in their points of origin before traveling, Morente said.

He issued the clarification after instances in which foreign spouses of Filipinos, who previously enjoyed visa-free privileges, attempted to enter the country.

Morente reminded the public that the departure travel restrictions set by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases are also in effect, except for foreigners and overseas Filipino workers.

Permanent visa holders, students enrolled abroad, participants accepted in exchange visitor programs and those traveling for essential reasons are also allowed to leave the country.

Morente said non-essential trips abroad are still not allowed.