MANILA, 6 August 2019: The Philippines Department of Tourism says it will review the visa-on-arrival policy amid concerns that an influx of undocumented foreigners might pose a security risk for the country.
The Philippines News Agency reported Monday the DOT would conduct a review with both the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Bureau of Immigration
The decision responds to earlier comments by the Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin, who recommended ending the privilege.
However, DOT clarified that the visa-on-arrival programme applies only to Chinese tourists. They had to pass screening by tour operators accredited by both the department and the immigration bureau.
“We agree that prime importance should focus on the security and safety of our guests and locals. The granting of visas is to ensure the entry of desirable visitors,” the DOT statement read.
In 2017, the immigration bureau started to issue visa-on-arrival to Chinese nationals to draw in more tourists from China.
(Source: Philippines News Agency)
