High-Risk Foreigners Barred Early by APIS
Since the Philippines launched the Advance Passenger Information System, or APIS, earlier this year, 32 high-risk foreigners have been stopped from entering the country. The Bureau of Immigration (BI) uses this system to identify these individuals before they even set foot on Philippine soil.
“Through APIS, we are able to flag high-risk individuals and stop them from entering the country before they could even disembark,” said BI Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado. This proactive method strengthens border security by screening travelers early.
How APIS Works to Protect the Philippines
APIS is a digital platform that screens inbound passengers before arrival, enabling authorities to detect threats promptly. The system uses the United Nations’ goTravel Air Software Solution, which the BI implemented in March. This technology allows the government to cross-check passenger information against international watchlists.
Initially, Cebu Pacific was the first airline to submit passenger data through APIS. Since then, the system has flagged 32 individuals linked to Interpol alerts. These include 26 entries from the Stolen and Lost Travel Documents (SLTD) database and six from the Nominal database, which tracks fugitives and persons connected to terrorism and serious crimes.
Expanding Adoption Among Airlines
More airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Kuwait Airways, and Etihad Airways have joined the APIS program. This wider adoption improves the system’s effectiveness in screening travelers and securing the nation’s borders.
Commissioner Viado emphasized that this approach aligns with President Marcos’ vision of a safer and more secure Philippines. It also demonstrates the country’s commitment to international cooperation and protecting public safety.
For more news and updates on border security, visit Filipinokami.com.
