THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has announced the temporary suspension of the Order to Leave (OTL) of foreigners overstaying in the country due to the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.
BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said the order to suspend the OTL was imposed in consideration of the effects of the pandemic on domestic and international travel.
“Pursuant to various resolutions from the IATF-MEID (Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases) directing the public to exercise social distancing and minimize travel, and in the interest of public safety and welfare, we will be implementing this order as a form of regulatory relief for foreigners,” he said.
Morente added the suspension also reciprocates the leniency extended by other countries to Filipino experiencing the same situation abroad.
The BI chief said the relief applies to holders of temporary visitor’s visas who have reached the 24-month period maximum stay for visa-required nationals, and 36-month-period maximum stay for non-visa required nationals, as of March 1, 2020; or 2) who have overstayed beginning March 1, 2020, regardless whether they have been in the country beyond the maximum allowable period.
Foreigners will still be assessed and required to settle their immigration fees and penalties in lieu of the OTL.