Image credits: Gerard Carreon/Rappler
Planning your first international trip? Pay attention to the updated rules set to take effect on September 3 for Filipinos traveling abroad. Whether it’s leisure or work-related, being prepared with the right documents is crucial. The Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) has introduced these changes on August 18 to counter the changing tactics of human trafficking.
Gone are the days when trafficking victims were easy to spot. They now often masquerade as tourists, armed with enough resources for a foreign journey. Their actual motive, however, is to secure employment overseas. To tackle this issue, the IACAT has unveiled a fresh set of departure rules.
Recently, the Department of Justice shed light on these modifications, aiming to address concerns among the public. While many aspects of the guidelines were already in effect, the updated version offers a transparent view of the finer points. It’s important to note that the documents mentioned in the guidelines are not set in stone. Rather, they serve as a collection of potential papers that immigration may request from travelers.
Primarily targeting first-time travelers, especially those who might appear as tourists but are suspected of having ulterior work-related motives, these guidelines are set to reshape the departure process. However, it’s worth mentioning that around 95% of travelers will only need to provide basic documents, including a valid passport, appropriate visa for their destination, boarding pass, and a confirmed return ticket if required.
Stay informed and stay ahead of the game by familiarizing yourself with these latest travel guidelines. Your hassle-free journey starts with proper documentation.
