Bureau of Immigration commissioner Norman Tansingco is optimistic that the agency's upcoming modernization projects will boost its capability to provide better and improved service to the public.

During the 2nd Tokyo Immigration Forum in Tokyo, Japan, Tansingco stressed that the modernization programs include the installation of additional electronic gates, the issuance of label-free visas and port clearances, automating processes and introducing online services.

He also highlighted the agency's drive to update its 82-year-old laws to incorporate modern concepts for border management.

The BI chief also described how the pandemic's impact on people's ability to travel freely during its onslaught put the agency's frontline reaction to the ultimate test.

"Opportunities for interoperability and modernization have been recognized and are being initiated as the nation navigates the new normal," Tansingco said.

The two-day forum was attended by immigration heads from different countries, including Cambodia, Canada, South Korea, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Japan's Minister of Justice, Saito Ken, opened the session, while International Organization for Migration director general Antonio Vitorino delivered the keynote speech for the 2nd Tokyo Immigration Forum.