BI backs wider NAIA e-Gates use
BI is now conducting procurement for the second phase, which will extend e-Gates to other international airports outside Metro Manila.
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) supports expanding electronic immigration gates (e-Gates) to all arriving and departing passengers at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, backing a proposal by Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said automated screening would allow passengers cleared by the system to bypass routine face-to-face interviews, while those flagged for further checks would still be examined by immigration officers.
The BI has completed the first phase of e-Gate expansion at provincial gateways in Clark, Cebu and Davao.
The upgraded system includes an Automated Biometric Identification System to detect multiple passport holders and possible identity fraud.
BI is now conducting procurement for the second phase, which will extend e-Gates to other international airports outside Metro Manila.
Viado said wider e-Gate access should be accompanied by biometric verification and security checks to help detect immigration violations and other risks.