Party-list solon refiles BI modernization bill
4PS Party-list Representative Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan has refiled a House Bill (HB) that seeks to reorganize and modernize the Bureau of Immigration (BI).
As a member of the House of Representatives in the 11th, 12th, and 13th Congresses and as Immigration commissioner thereafter, Libanan pushed for the passage of the new immigration law.
Libanan explained that as the government agency in charge of controlling the entry and admissions of foreigners and migrants within our borders, the BI must be “in tune with the modern times in the interest of our national security and economic development.”
He noted that the present immigration law is very “restrictive”.
The BI remains governed by Commonwealth Act No. 613 or the Philippine Immigration Act 1940 – the 80-decade-old legislation is “outdated” by the constant evolution of international migration.
In the proposed immigration law docketed as HB No. 1069, the Philippine immigration policies, rules, and regulations shall be applied and administered as instruments for the promotion of domestic and external interests of the Philippines in recognition of the necessity for encouraging and enhancing capital investments, trade and commerce, cultural exchanges and other forms of friendly relations and cooperation.
“We will transform the Bureau of Immigration into an investor and tourist-friendly office,” Libanan added.
The party-list representative said he hopes that a modernized BI will support the government’s program of “ease in doing business” in the Philippines that will further encourage more foreigners to invest and visit our country, resulting in increased economic activities and business opportunities, especially in our micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
One of the key programs of the 4PS Party-list is to support “the advancement and progress of livelihood opportunities for MSMEs” to attain the sector’s social and economic prosperity.
“Hopefully, with a reinvigorated economy, fewer Filipinos will leave the country as overseas workers,” he concluded.
