Air and sea travelers to and from the Philippines will soon experience a more streamlined travel process, thanks to a collaboration between several government agencies to enhance the e-Travel system.
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) announced in a news release on Thursday that it has partnered with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) to roll out the improved e-Travel system on July 10, 2024.
The updated system will generate a single QR code for each passenger, covering their requirements for the BOC, Bureau of Immigration, Bureau of Quarantine, Migrant Workers, and Department of Tourism.
“This allows for a more seamless clearance process, minimizing wait times and reducing the need for multiple forms and checkpoints,” the BOC stated.
The enhanced e-Travel system will also integrate the Customs Baggage Declaration Form, Currency Declaration Form, and the Overseas Employment Certificate for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Additionally, it will include new seaport and cruise forms, simplifying the registration process at seaports and cruise terminals.
Launched in 2022 by the DICT, in collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Transportation, Bureau of Immigration, Bureau of Quarantine, and Department of Tourism, the e-Travel system aims to streamline travel processes for those entering and exiting the Philippines.
The BOC highlighted that the enhanced e-Travel system will benefit multiple stakeholders by advancing inter-agency coordination through real-time data sharing and improved monitoring of travel flows. This integration supports national security measures and aids in public health risk management by providing timely and accurate information to all relevant authorities.