Travelers arrive at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 in Pasay City on March 12, 2024. Jonathan Cellona, ABS-CBN News/File 

MANILA — The Bureau of Immigration said it was all set for the Advance Passenger Information System or APIS which would allow authorities to identify potential security threats before they enter the country.

In a statement, the BI said the launch was a major step in modernizing border security and streamlining immigration processes.

The BI said APIS is a globally recognized system used by countries worldwide to conduct advance screening of passengers before their arrival.

BI APIS Operations Center Chief and Deputy Spokesperson Melvin Mabulac said the system “will enable us to screen passengers in advance, improving risk assessment and expediting the processing of legitimate travelers.”

The BI added that pilot testing was being done by major airlines such as Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific, in coordination with their service providers.

Connectivity tests with INTERPOL’s I-24/7 database were successfully conducted to ensure access to international security watchlists for enhanced monitoring.  

The BI has also been actively engaging with other stakeholders, such as the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism for the seamless integration of APIS with existing systems.

The system is expected to be launched within the month.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the initiative was part of the efforts of the agency to modernize immigration processes, not only for security reasons but also for the convenience of travelers.

“With APIS, we are not only strengthening security but also ensuring a more efficient and hassle-free experience for travelers,” Viado said.

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