Senator backs Afghans’ temporary housing

Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino expressed support on Tuesday for the Philippine government’s decision to temporarily house around 300 Afghan nationals in the country.

The Afghan refugees, primarily applicants for the US Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program, will be processed for resettlement in the United States.

Tolentino hailed the humanitarian move by the Philippines, emphasizing the country’s commitment to international treaties.

“I commend our government for its decision, as it reflects our country’s values and strengthens our global standing,” he said in a statement.

“These 300 Afghans are fleeing persecution in their homeland. I fully support hosting them in the Philippines as an act of compassion and solidarity,” he added.

He stressed the importance of helping those fleeing violence and persecution, asserting that accepting refugees aligns with international human rights standards.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced on Monday the arrival of 300 Afghan nationals, most of them children. The group’s flight, originally scheduled for 4 January, was delayed due to adverse weather conditions in Kabul.

DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza confirmed that the US government would cover all the necessary services for the refugees during their stay, including housing, medical care, security, and transportation for visa processing.

Under the agreement, the US Embassy in Manila will process each applicant’s visa within 59 days.

Afghan nationals arriving in the country have undergone full security vetting by both the US and Philippine governments, with mobility restrictions in place. They will remain in a designated facility and be allowed to leave only for their consular interview at the US Embassy.