Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Norman Tansingco on
Wedneday said that all agencies involved in airport operations must work together to resolve
airport lines.
Tansingco made the statement after receiving reports of long lines at the immigration
area, following the post-new year glitch at the country’s airports. “All counters were manned,
but the lines remained long,” said Tansingco. “While passengers were processed expeditiously,
more can be done to improve this,” he added.
Tansingco shared that the BI supports the decongestion of the Ninoy Aquino International
Airport (NAIA) and opening of new airports.
“As we open our borders, we should innovate in anticipation of the rebound of
international tourism,” said Tansingco.
He bared that they have reached the maximum capacity of counters at the airport, and
have even assigned two to four immigration officers in counters in certain terminals.
“It’s already a space problem. We can add so many officers, but if the space is limited,
then there will still be lines,” he stated.
Tansingco also sought the cooperation of airlines by regulating the influx of passengers
by proper scheduling.
“This is a joint concern that we must all address in all aspects,” said
Tansingco. “We believe that by working together, this concern can be resolved,” he added.
