Wednesday, February 14, 2007 Foreigners rue confusing BI laws By Carlo P. Mallo
THE inconsistency in how immigration laws are interpreted and implemented by immigration officers is the major dilemma among foreign nationals entering the country.
This came about in last week's meeting of over 60 foreign nationals residing in the city, organized by the Union of Foreigners to provide its members and every foreign national in the city a dialogue with representatives from the Bureau of Immigration (BI).
An American national, in his early 50's who requested anonymity, said his experience with the BI officer at the airport's immigration desk was simply confusing.
He said he arrived in the country with his Filipino wife but was not given the "Balikbayan visa" he ought to have. His temper was even brought to the brink when he discovered that the BI officer had the discretion to stamp the dates as he pleased.
Another foreign national said he had his application for residency in the country processed by a lawyer since late 2005. But, until now he has not received any development from the lawyer and his papers are still pending.
He added that he is being asked to pay over P5,000 as overstaying fees.
According to Rowena Regalado, foreign student desk officer, the best way to avoid and ensure the validity of their stay here is to always transact business with the BI office.
Regalado added that these are usually the common problems of foreign nationals visiting the country.
She said, "Should there be any clarificatory questions foreigners have to ask, it would be really appreciated if they go directly to our office."
