THE Department of Justice (DOJ) has called off the implementation of the revised guidelines set by the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (Iacat) for Filipino passengers heading abroad.
In a statement, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said he finds the suspension of the implementation of the policy necessary to clarify issues surrounding the matter.
"We take this opportunity to remind everyone that the temporary suspension of the implementation of the revised guidelines on departure formalities does not affect existing laws and regulations governing travel and immigration procedures. All existing rules and guidelines remain in place until further notice," the DOJ said.
The agency, however, maintained that the revised guidelines are intended to “enhance the overall experience of departing passengers” and not to burden them.
On Wednesday, August 30, the Senate adopted two resolutions seeking the suspension of the implementation of the new Iacat guidelines as well as filing a temporary restraining order (TRO) before the Supreme Court (SC) against the policy.
In the guidelines, the Iacat listed down the necessary documents to be presented to BI, depending on the type of passenger.
It noted that the basic travel documents include the passenger’s passport valid at least six months from the date of departure, appropriate visa (whenever required), boarding pass and a confirmed return or roundtrip ticket when necessary.
The Iacat also requires passengers to present documents that would support or prove the purpose of their travel either for tourism or work, among others.
For tourists, necessary documents include proof of financial capacity or source of income.
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said that the revised guidelines violate a person's right to travel, as guaranteed by Article 3, Section 6 of the constitution, which mandates that “The liberty of abode and of changing the same within the limits prescribed by law shall not be impaired except upon lawful order of the court. Neither shall the right to travel be impaired except in the interest of national security, public safety, or public health.” (SunStar Philippines)