Metro Manila, Philippines – Malacañang urged the public to remain calm over reports of a new immigration fee, noting that it is still under review.
Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said there is no decision on the fee tied to a proposed upgrade of border systems.
“So, huwag po munang mag-alala ang ating mga kababayan, wala pa po ito. It’s just a proposal,” Castro said during a Palace press briefing.
[Translation: Our fellow citizens should not worry, there is no such thing. It’s just a proposal.]
Castro said the government recognizes the goal of improving border security but noted that any additional cost to travelers must be carefully evaluated.
“Dapat itong maisakatuparan sa paraang malinaw, makatarungan at may tiwala ang publiko,” she said.
[Translation: This must be implemented in a way that is clear, fair, and earns public trust.]
The Bureau of Immigration clarified that its proposed Civil Aviation and Immigration Security Services (CAISS) project has not been finalized.
Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said reports about a ₱480 fee were based on a pending proposal.
“The reports were based on a proposal that has not yet received the final approvals,” he said.
Viado said the agency is conducting a comprehensive review and stakeholder consultations, particularly on a proposed $4 or roughly ₱247 user fee component.
He said the modernization project aims to strengthen border control through advanced systems, including biometric technology and real-time risk assessment, to address threats such as human trafficking and terrorism.
“At the same time, we understand the sentiments of our kababayan [countrymen]… any proposal that may affect travelers financially must undergo proper review, consultation, and clear public communication,” he said.
The immigration chief said the project remains a proposed public-private partnership and that any implementation would require further study to make sure it is necessary, reasonable, and beneficial to the public.
The agency said it will continue consultations with stakeholders in the aviation, tourism and transport sectors as it refines the proposal.
