BI posts 12% increase in int'l travelers amid 'Undas'

MANILA – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) recorded a 12-percent increase in international travel amid the observance of All Saints' and All Souls' Days.

In a statement, the BI reported that it processed 167,538 passengers on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, higher than the 149,257 recorded during the same period in 2023.

It noted that the influx, fueled by the "Undas" season, brought high passenger volumes to major Philippine airports, particularly on those two days.

On Oct. 31, BI recorded 41,078 arrivals and 43,341 departures across the country.

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 processed 14,010 arrivals and 15,666 departures, while Terminal 3 saw the highest volume with 19,223 arrivals and 20,495 departures.

On Nov. 1, the BI recorded similar international traffic with 42,858 arrivals and 40,261 departures.

NAIA Terminal 1 saw 14,931 arrivals and 13,381 departures, and Terminal 3 handled 19,136 arrivals and 19,431 departures.

Earlier, the BI deployed 58 newly appointed immigration officers across key airports, as well as its rapid response and augmentation teams, to provide more manpower during the peak season.

Likewise, it encouraged travelers to use electronic gates at the arrival areas to expedite entry and exit, in a bid to reduce queuing times.
Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, meanwhile, acknowledged the efforts of BI employees who worked during the holidays.

"Our officers have demonstrated commendable commitment and sacrifice, spending time away from their families to ensure our borders remain secure and to facilitate smooth travel," he said. (PNA)