Bureau of Immigration Mobilizes Full Force for Holy Week Travel Surge
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has activated a full-force deployment of personnel as the Holy Week travel rush reaches its peak across the Philippines. With an estimated 45,000 departing international passengers expected daily at the country's major airports, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado declared an "all hands on deck" approach to manage the influx.
Enhanced Airport Operations and Passenger Advisory
Commissioner Viado emphasized that all immigration officers are on full alert, with additional front-line staff deployed and support units mobilized to ensure smooth and efficient passenger processing. "We are anticipating heavy passenger volumes throughout the Holy Week period, with daily departures potentially reaching up to 45,000," Viado stated. "Our commitment is to maintain orderly and efficient operations despite the congestion."
To mitigate delays, the BI strongly advises travelers to arrive at airports at least three hours before their scheduled flights. "This is the peak of the Holy Week exodus," Viado explained. "While queues are expected due to the sheer number of travelers, our full deployment aims to provide a manageable airport experience for all passengers."
Warning Against eTravel Scams and Fraudulent Websites
In light of the travel surge, the Bureau of Immigration has issued a stern warning against scammers exploiting the situation. Fraudulent websites have emerged, charging fees for the government's electronic travel declaration system, known as eTravel. Commissioner Viado clarified that registration on the eTravel platform is entirely free of charge.
"The eTravel registration process is absolutely free," Viado asserted. "We urge the public to register only through the official government website at etravel.gov.ph to avoid falling victim to these deceptive schemes." He highlighted that these scams represent clear cases of fraud, particularly concerning during the holiday rush.
Travelers who encounter such fraudulent activities are encouraged to report them to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) via its official website. Additionally, passengers may complete their eTravel registration through the national government's eGovPH super app as a convenient alternative.
The BI's proactive measures underscore its dedication to safeguarding travelers during one of the busiest periods of the year, ensuring both security and efficiency amid the Holy Week exodus.
