BI in full force for Undas 2025

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has deployed additional personnel to ensure safe and smooth operations at the country’s airports amid the expected influx of passengers for Undas 2025.

In a statement on Thursday, the BI said it is in full force at all international airports in anticipation of the surge in travelers starting Friday, Oct. 31 until next week.

“Our officers will be working round-the-clock to accommodate the influx of passengers during the Undas break,” said BI commissioner Joel Anthony Viado.

“We advise travelers to arrive at the airport at least three hours before their flight to avoid delays,” he added.

Viado reminded the public to expect some lines at immigration counters due to the volume of passengers. 

The BI assured that all immigration counters will be fully manned to ensure the smooth processing of arriving and departing passengers.

“The Bureau is coordinating closely with airport authorities to ensure that despite construction and facility upgrades, services remain uninterrupted,” Viado said.

“We ask for the public’s patience and understanding as these improvements are meant to enhance the overall airport experience,” he added.

Around 1.35 million passengers are expected to troop to Ninoy Aquino International Airport to go to their home provinces in observance of Undas 2025.

The New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) said it is expecting an increase in passengers from Oct. 25 to Nov. 3.

Malacañang earlier declared Friday, October 31, 2025 or the eve of All Saints’ Day and Saturday, November 1, 2025 or All Saints’ Day as special non-working days.

BI ramping up hiring for holidays

Meanwhile, the BI said it will hire additional immigration officers as part of its preparations for the upcoming Christmas and New Year season.

“This initiative ensures that we have adequate manpower to provide faster and more efficient immigration services during the peak travel season,” Viado said.

“Every year, travel peaks after the New Year, and we expect these numbers to rise again, with overseas Filipino workers and returning Filipinos heading back to their overseas destinations,” he said.

Successful applicants will undergo an intensive training program at the Philippine Immigration Academy in Clark on immigration laws, arrival and departure procedures, document inspection, and national security enforcement before deployment. 

After their training, they will be deployed at the frontlines in various airports and offices in the country.

To submit applications, applicants may visit BI’s career portal. — JMA, GMA Integrated News