Within the domain of the Bureau of Immigration (BI), or Kawanihan ng Pandarayuhan, one encounters the Philippines’ foremost immigration regulatory and control body.
Established in 1940 by the Philippine Immigration Act, the Bureau of Immigration boasts a legacy rooted in its precursor agency within the Bureau of Customs since 1899.
Renamed the Bureau of Immigration and Deportation from 1972 to 1987, it holds a pivotal role in supervising immigration affairs, ensuring regulatory adherence, and shaping the nation’s approach to border control.
Under the jurisdiction of the Department of Justice, this article takes a deep dive into the history, job mandates, and more.
Continue reading and scroll down for the job list, uncovering the diverse aspects of the BI and the opportunities it presents for those aspiring to forge a meaningful career in immigration and border security.
Table of Contents
Job Opportunities:
Discover a variety of fulfilling roles within the Bureau of Immigration (BI), where diverse and impactful positions await.
Join a dedicated team committed to ensuring border security, regulating immigration processes, and contributing to a safe and orderly society.
Each position at the Bureau of Immigration presents a unique chance to play a crucial role in the nation’s immigration and security efforts.
Explore each role by clicking on the respective job title, and take the first step toward a meaningful and rewarding career, whether you’re an experienced professional or an enthusiastic newcomer.
Explore the job openings at the BI and other government agencies, actively contributing to shaping a secure and welcoming future for our communities! Seize the opportunity today.
Bureau of Immigration History:
Join us on a quick journey through the history of the Bureau of Immigration (BI). Established in 1940 under the Philippine Immigration Act, the BI’s roots go back to its earlier days in the Bureau of Customs since 1899.
Formerly known as the Bureau of Immigration and Deportation from 1972 to 1987, this institution, under the Department of Justice, has played a crucial role in shaping the nation’s approach to immigration.
Foundation and Early Years (1899-1937):
The inception of the Bureau of Immigration in 1899 marked its formation as a division within the Bureau of Customs during the American regime.
The rationale behind this establishment was deeply rooted in the interconnectedness of ship travel and cargo, and consequently, the office found a natural home within the Bureau of Customs.
During this period, the government’s priorities were distinctly geared towards the entry of goods, reflecting a policy emphasis on customs duties rather than an intricate monitoring of foreign nationals entering the country.
This orientation persisted until 1937, when a notable shift occurred due to the increasing presence of Chinese nationals engaged in trade.
The functions of Immigration were subsequently transferred as a division under the Bureau of Labor, signaling a nuanced response to the evolving demographic landscape.
Creation of the Bureau of Immigration (1940-1948):
The watershed moment for the Bureau of Immigration came on January 22, 1940, with the passage of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940 (Commonwealth Act No. 613).
This landmark legislation not only formalized the establishment of the Bureau of Immigration but also set the stage for a redefined institutional identity.
The Act, signed into law by the President of the United States of America on September 3, 1940, positioned the bureau under the administrative supervision of the Office of the President.
Following a transient period as an attached agency of the Department of Justice, administrative control was eventually returned to the Office of the President.
The outbreak of the Pacific War in December 1941 compelled the bureau, then under the Department of Justice, to relocate to Bilibid Prison on Azcarraga Street.
Post-War Reorganization and Departmental Changes (1945-1972):
The post-war era witnessed a series of relocations for the bureau, from its initial move near Gate 1 of the South Harbor in Manila to subsequent occupancy in Building No. 5 at the Customs Bureau at Gate 4.
The year 1945 brought about a significant organizational shift as the bureau, in line with the broader government reorganization plan, came under the supervision of the Department of Labor.
A pivotal juncture occurred in 1948 when the bureau was reverted to the jurisdiction of the Department of Justice, a jurisdictional arrangement that has endured to the present day.
Martial Law and Transformation into CID (1972):
September 21, 1972, marked a critical turning point for the bureau as President Ferdinand E. Marcos declared Martial Law.
In response, the Integrated Reorganization Plan, implemented through Letter of Implementation No. 20 dated December 31, 1972, ushered in a transformative phase.
This plan not only changed the name of the office from the Bureau of Immigration to the Commission on Immigration and Deportation (CID) but also elevated its status to a collegial body.
The CID, composed of a commissioner and two associate commissioners, was entrusted with both administrative and quasi-judicial functions.
A concurrent move involved the abolition of the Deportation Board, with its functions seamlessly transferred to the Board of Commissioners, empowering them to undertake deportation cases.
The bureau, under the CID, was granted the sole authority to enforce and administer immigration and foreign nationals registration laws, covering admission, registration, exclusion, deportation, and repatriation of foreign nationals.
It also assumed the responsibility of supervising the immigration from the Philippines of foreign nationals.
Administrative Code of 1987 and Renaming (1987):
The next significant chapter unfolded on July 25, 1987, with the signing of Executive Order No. 292 by President Corazon C. Aquino, known as the Administrative Code of 1987.
This executive order, while renaming the office to the “Bureau of Immigration,” retained all the powers and functions it had during its commission era.
Crucially, the head of the office continued to be referred to as the commissioner, adhering to the organizational structure provided under the Department of Justice.
Vision and Mission:
Guided by a crucial mandate in national security and legal enforcement, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) assumes a pivotal role.
Anchored in the meticulous administration of immigration laws, the BI plays a vital part in safeguarding the integrity of our borders.
This concise overview highlights the BI’s unwavering commitment to its vision of evolving into a modernized and inclusive border control authority, actively contributing to the fight against human trafficking.
Mandate:
“The Bureau of Immigration (BI) is principally responsible for the administration and enforcement of immigration, citizenship, and alien admission and registration laws in accordance with the provisions of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940.
It also plays a role in the enforcement of RA 9208, also known as the Anti-Trafficking In Persons Act of 2003.”
Vision:
“To be an inclusive, modernized, and resilient border control organization that exercises a culture of excellence and accountability.”
Quality Policy:
“The Bureau of Immigration is dedicated to delivering exceptional immigration services by embracing a modernized, inclusive, and resilient approach to border management.
Our commitment extends to unwavering compliance with all relevant statutory and regulatory requirements, ensuring the highest standards of quality in our services.”
Quality Objectives:
- Continuous Improvement and Innovation:
- The management is committed to fostering continual improvement by developing, implementing, and refining effective systems and processes.
This includes sound policy-making and the strategic implementation of management strategies, such as automation and modernization, to enhance overall efficiency.
- Effective Border Security:
- Emphasizing systematic immigration control measures to strengthen border security and safeguard the nation’s interests.
- Exemplary Immigration Services:
- Providing outstanding immigration services with a commitment to strict compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.
- Efficient Administrative Support:
- Ensuring the provision of comprehensive general administrative and support services to optimize operational functions.
- Personnel Welfare and Competency:
- Prioritizing personnel welfare and competency through the strategic implementation of Human Resource and Capacity Building Programs.
- Adoption of Technological Advancements:
- Embracing current technological trends and streamlining processes wherever feasible to enhance operational effectiveness.
- Enhanced Collaboration:
- Strengthening collaboration with other government agencies, immigration counterparts, and stakeholders to foster a cohesive and synergistic approach in achieving common goals.
Core Values:
In this section, we will delve into the fundamental principles that shape the identity and guide the actions of this organization.
Rooted in love for the country, doing what is right, and excelling in responsibilities, these values reflect a collective commitment to success and societal well-being.
- Patriotism:
“We do everything out of love for our country.”
- Integrity:
“We do what is right even if nobody is watching.”
- Professionalism:
“We are the best at what we do.”
Key Focus Areas:
- Combatting Corruption
- Embracing Modernization
- Ensuring National Security
- Optimizing Organizational Size
- Empowering Personnel
Unified Strategies for Personnel Management and Enhancement
- Continue introducing new personnel/HR management programs/initiatives with steadfast support from the Department of Justice and BI top management.
- Enhance merit and disciplinary schemes to attract highly qualified applicants, strengthening the BI workforce.
- Establish a program to improve health and wellness benefits and facilities.
- Conduct ongoing training for employees to foster professionalism and fortify administrative mechanisms.
- Maximize participation in international and local capacity-building activities for personnel career and professional advancement.
- Implement a comprehensive Career Development Program.
Effective Agency Coordination
Formalize inter-agency coordination bodies, appointing point persons and defining regular meeting schedules to prevent conflicting functions and ensure effective law implementation.
Transparency and Good Governance Initiatives
- Regularly update the Citizens Charter to promote transparency in line with DOJ and CSC policies.
- Strictly implement ARTA, SPMS, BI Citizen’s Charter, Code of Ethics for Government employees, R.A. 3019, and other applicable laws to prevent the use of fake/fraudulent documents for immigration purposes.
- Enforce the Procurement Law (R.A. 9184).
Enhancement of Rules, Regulations, Procedures, and Policies
- Improve existing systems and procedures (e.g., VIMS, IDR, SPMS, GAD initiatives) for increased efficiency.
- Fully implement the Integrated Communication Plan (ICP) for effective communication of changes.
- Attain and sustain ISO 9001:2008 certification.
- Enhance the security features of accountable and immigration-issued documents.
- Strengthen international cooperation for immigration best practices.
- Utilize SMO (TWGs) to address conflicting policies/guidelines and streamline documentary requirements for visa applications.
Infrastructure Enhancement
Upgrade existing physical infrastructure through the opening, transfer, rehabilitation, and construction of new BI office buildings.
Organizational and Structural Reforms
- Advocate for the passage of the New Philippine Immigration Law, potentially including immunity provisions for immigration officers during regular Anti-TIP/AIR profiling/operations at international airports and seaports.
- Adjust salary grades to minimize corruption risks and align compensation policies.
- Institutionalize all ad hoc divisions, sections, and other units of the Bureau (VCD and Anti-Fraud, Certification and Clearance Section, and AOD).
- Establish the Strategic Management Office (SMO).
Advancements in Technology
- Revise the Information Systems Strategic Plan (ISSP) to upgrade and modernize ICT resources, adopting new technologies such as Biometrics Systems and Online Services.
- Propose a budget (GAA) for the acquisition of IT equipment to enhance efficient and automated data management.
Duties and Responsibilities:
The Bureau of Immigration plays a vital role as the primary enforcer for the Department of Justice and the President of the Philippines. Its responsibilities include ensuring that foreigners follow laws within its jurisdiction.
This overview highlights the Bureau’s essential tasks in upholding national security, public safety, and regulating immigration processes.
General Functions:
1. Acts as the primary enforcement arm of the Department of Justice and the President of the Philippines, ensuring compliance with existing laws by all foreigners within its territorial jurisdiction.
2. Assists local and international law enforcement agencies in maintaining the tranquility of the state by addressing threats to national security, public safety, public morals, and public health posed by certain foreigners.
3. Serves as the chief repository of all immigration records related to the entry, temporary sojourn, admission, residence, and departure of foreigners in the country.
Specific Functions:
In the discharge of its broad functions, the Bureau, through its Board of Commissioners, exercises administrative and quasi-judicial powers over the:
1. Regulation of the entry (arrival), stay (sojourn), and exit (departure) of foreign nationals in the country.
2. Monitoring of the entry and exit of Filipino citizens in compliance with Philippine laws and legal procedures.
3. Issuance of immigration documents and identification certifications for non-immigrant, immigrant, and special non-immigrant visas.
4. Issuance of special permits related to the enforcement of immigration laws (e.g., Special Work Permit (SWP), Provisional Permit to Work (PPW), Special Study Permit (SSP), re-entry permits, clearances, etc.).
5. Extension of stay for temporary visitors and implementation of changes of status as provided by law.
6. Administrative determination of citizenship and related status.
7. Investigation, hearing, decision, and execution of orders regarding exclusion, deportation, and repatriation of foreign nationals.
8. Implementation of Hold Departure Orders, Blacklist, Watchlist, Immigration Lookout Bulletin Orders, and Alert List Orders.
9. Cancellation of immigration documents upon violation of immigration laws and procedures.
10. Investigation, arrests, and detention of foreigners in violation of immigration regulations and other Philippine laws.
11. Accreditation of schools and learning institutions officially accepting and enrolling foreign students.
12. Accreditation of law firms, liaison officers, travel agencies, and other individuals and organizations transacting with the Bureau of Immigration.
Organizational Structure:
In the image below, we’ll take a simple look at how the organization is put together, understanding how different roles are arranged to make everything run smoothly.
Contact Details:
Bureau of Immigration Main Office Directory
For your convenience, here are the contact details for the Bureau of Immigration (BI) Main Office located at Magallanes Drive, Intramuros, Manila, Philippines 1002:
Direct Line: (+632) 8-524-3769 Trunk Line Number: (+632) 8-465-2400 Feel free to reach out via email: General Inquiries: xinfo@immigration.gov.ph Alternative Email: immigPH@gmail.com Additional Contact: binoc_immigration@hotmail.ph
Main Office
| DIVISION/SECTION | TRANSACTION | DIRECT LINE(S) | LOCAL EXTENSION | ROOM ASSIGNMENT |
| ALIEN REGISTRATION DIVISION (ARD) – Chief Jose Carlitos Z. Licas | ACR I-Card and other ARD-issued documents approval and releasing | 8-527-5656 | 101, 126, 127 | Ground Floor Windows 1 |
| CASH SECTION – Acting Chief, Abdul Latiph Tomawis | BI Collection, Payments, Refund | 8-527-3280, 8-310-6298 | 103 – Chief, 114, 115 | Window 13-16 & 26-28 |
| CENTRAL RECEIVING UNIT (CRU) / PUBLIC INFORMATION ASSISTANCE UNIT (PIAU) – Acting Chief, Carlo Magno R. Salazar | Receiving of VIMS, All Visa, Permit Applications, Non-VIMS, Different External Communications, Issuance of OPS & BICC, General Information & Assistance OPS VIMS Non-VIMS | 8-527-32-51 | 135, 136, 107 | Window 12-17, 20, 21 |
| CERTIFICATE AND CLEARANCE SECTION (CCS) – Acting Chief, Atty. Vicente G. Uncad | BI Clearance Certificate, Not the same person (NTSP) Travel Certificate, Receipt Printing, CTC of Dero Records NICA, Pending app | 5-310-4460 | 110 | Window 23-25 |
| CIVIL SECURITY UNIT (CSU) – Acting Head, Muhammad Arif L. Arifuddin | CSU Matters | 5-310-4460 | 111 (Lobby), 112 (Office) | Lobby |
| BIOMETRICS SECTION – Acting Chief, Ma. Rholyn Merced D. Uy | Biometric and Fingerprint Capturing Annual Report | 208 | Window 43 | |
| DATA TRAIL | 8-525-7557 | Window 43 | ||
| GENERAL SERVICES SECTION (GSS) – Acting Chief, Viviene A. Candelario | Request for repair and services | 5-301-56-59, 5-527-56-59 | 113 – Chief, 131, 132 | |
| MEDICAL AND DENTAL CLINIC – OIC, Dr. Marites P. Ambray, MD. | Medical | 106, 128, 129 | Room 104 | |
| REGISTRATION SECTION – Acting Chief, Cesario Dennis B. Mateo | ACR I-Card and ACR paper-based registration review and processing | 8-527-3287 | 104 | Windows 5, 6, 7 |
Ports of Entry and Exit
| OFFICE | ADDRESS | CONTACT DETAILS |
| Bohol-Panglao International Airport (BPIA) | Barangay Tawala, Panglao Island, Bohol | (038) 412-9968, bipanglaoboholairport@gmail.com |
| Cagayan-North International Airport (CNIA) | Barangay San Mariano and Dagupan, Lal-Lo, Cagayan | cnia789@gmail.com |
| Clark International Airport (CIA) | Andres Bonifacio Ave., Clark Special Economic Zone Clark Field, Pampanga | 499-0398, Fax: 599-7283, cia@immigration.gov.ph |
| Davao International Airport (DIA) | Sasa, Davao City 8000 | Telefax: (082) 232-8076, dia@immigration.gov.ph |
| Iloilo International Airport (IIA) | Iloilo Airport Access Road, Cabatuan 5301 | 329-9500 to 02 local 3126, Fax: 522-6020, immigrationiloiloairport@gmail.com |
| Kalibo International Airport (KIA) | Barangay Pook, Kalibo, Aklan | pod.kia@immigration.gov.ph |
| Laoag International Airport (LIA) | Barangay 43, Laoag City | bilaoag@yahoo.com |
| Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) | Airport Road, Lapu-Lapu City 6016 | 494-7000, Arrival local 7542, Departure local 7541, mcia@immigration.gov.ph |
| NAIA Terminal 1 | Pasay City 1300 | Arrival Admin: 8-879-6081, Fax: 8-852-2936, Departure DIS: 8-879-6085, naia1@immigration.gov.ph |
| NAIA Terminal 2 | Centennial Terminal MIA Road Pasay City 1300 | Departure Admin: 8-879-6016, Fax: 8-879-6015, binaiat2@gmail.com |
BI Other Offices
| Office | Email/Contact Details | Address |
| Angeles Immigration Field Office | E-mail: bi_cdo@yahoo.com.ph/ angeles_fo@immigration.gov.ph | Ground Flr., Metro Supermarket MarQuee Mall, Pulung Maragul, Angeles City 2009 |
| Aparri Immigration Field Office | E-mail: aparri.fo@immigration.gov.ph | Philippine Port Authority (PPA) Compound Loriga Gallarza Street, Barangay Punta, Aparri, Cagayan |
| Apeco Immigration Field Office | E-mail: biapecofieldofc@gmail.com | Unit 606, Philflex Bay Center, Coral Way Drive, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City |
| Bacolod Immigration Field Office | E-mail: bacolod.fo@immigration.gov.ph | E-mail: bacolod.fo@immigration.gov.ph Direct Line(s) (034) 8433 – 8581 Facsimile Numbers (034) 8433 – 8581 |
| Baguio Immigration Field Office | E-mail: Baguio.do@immigration.gov.ph | #38 Wagner Road, Military Cut-Off, Baguio City, Benguet 2600 |
| Balabac Immigration Field Office | E-mail: bifieldofficebalabacbc@yahoo.com | Salvacion St. cor. Balmonte St., District II Brooke’s Point, Palawan |
| Balanga Immigration Field Office, Region III | E-mail: balanga.fo@immigration.gov.ph | 2nd Floor, Santiago Building, Garcia corner Laurel Street, Capitol Drive, Balanga City, Bataan |
| Batangas Immigration District Office | E-mail: bi_batangasdistrictoffice@yahoo.com | Bureau of Immigration Batangas District Office, Diversion Road, Bgy. Bolbok, Batangas City |
| Batuganding Immigration Border Crossing Station | E-mail: batuganding_bc@immigration.gov.ph | Candelaria C. Digal Bldg. Mabila, Sangani, Davao Occidental |
| Bislig Immigration Field Office | E-mail: Bislig.fo@immigration.gov.ph | Magada Bldg. Requina Ext. John Bosco Village, Mangagoy, Bislig City, Surigao del Sur 3908 |
Bay Service Section
| Purpose | Email Address |
| General Inquiries | bi.bayservicesection@gmail.com |
| Submission of Notice of Arrival | bi.bss.noa@gmail.com |
| Submission of BOQ Medical Clearance and RT-PCR Results | bi.bss.medclearance@gmail.com |
| 9(c) Visa or Visa Crew List | bi.bss.visacrewlist@gmail.com |
| Other Non-Immigrant Visa Holders Travel Pass | bi.bss.travelpass@gmail.com |
BI Warden’s Facility:
- Acting Warden: Leander F. Catalo, Intelligence Officer II
- Camp Bagong Diwa, General Santos Ave., Lower Bicutan, Taguig City
- Contact No.: 8-478-3539, 8-298-0234
For any assistance or information, do not hesitate to connect with the BI using the provided contact information.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation’s borders and regulating immigration processes.
With a diverse approach encompassing security, transparency, and service, the BI is committed to ensuring the integrity of the immigration system while providing assistance to those seeking legitimate entry into the country.
For those seeking meaningful career opportunities, the Bureau of Immigration presents a dynamic and impactful environment.
Explore the various roles and positions available across different offices, each contributing to the overarching mission of the BI.
Whether you are an experienced professional or an enthusiastic newcomer, consider joining the BI team to be a part of the nation’s critical efforts in immigration regulation.
Take the first step towards a rewarding career by exploring the job openings and contributing to the Bureau’s commitment to excellence.
Discover your potential at the Bureau of Immigration and become a key player in shaping the future of immigration in the Philippines.
Check out the available job listings and embark on a journey towards a fulfilling and impactful career with the BI.
Disclaimer:
The Philippine Go does not collect fees and is not a hiring agency, nor is it related to any hiring agency for employment abroad.
All information contained here is solely for informational purposes and rightfully belongs to its rightful owner.
Attached in the last section of the content are references for further verification, if needed. Read more.
Reference:
1. Bureau of Immigration (Philippines). (2024). Retrieved from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bureau_of_Immigration_(Philippines)]
2. Bureau of Immigration. (2024). History. Retrieved from [https://immigration.gov.ph/history/]
3. Bureau of Immigration. (2024). Vision and Mission. Retrieved from [https://immigration.gov.ph/vission-and-mission/]
4. Bureau of Immigration. (2024). Duties and Responsibilities. Retrieved from [https://immigration.gov.ph/duties-and-responsibilities/]
5. Bureau of Immigration. (2024). Organizational Structure. Retrieved from [https://immigration.gov.ph/organizational-structure/]
6. Bureau of Immigration. (2024). Contacts. Retrieved from [https://immigration.gov.ph/contacts/]