BI installs new passport readers, equipment at NAIA for visitors

The Bureau of Immigration has installed 171 passport readers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport for visitors in 2015, including those coming for major events this year.

 

BI commissioner Siegfred Mison said the upgrades came in time for the arrival of Pope Francis and the Philippines’ hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation events.

 

In a post on its Facebook account, the BI said it also installed 160 desktop computers and 141 UPS units at NAIA, and will install more at other airports.

 

“We are expecting 58 more passport readers and 40 computers to be delivered to Clark International Airport and Mactan-Cebu International Airport by February,” said Mison.

 

The BI said it expects the upgraded computers and scanners to ease the lines at the country’s major international airports.

 

"Passport scanners are essential in expediting immigration document processing. Currently, immigration officers follow a 40-second rule in passport processing," it said. — Joel Locsin/VC, GMA News