MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has urged travelers heading abroad this holiday season to arrive at the airport at least three hours before their scheduled flights to avoid congestion and ensure smoother travel.  

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the surge in international passengers during the Christmas season could lead to long lines at immigration counters. 

The bureau earlier said that holiday travelers are expected to hit more than 110,000 this year. 

However, he told the public that the agency has implemented measures to significantly reduce waiting times compared to previous years.  

“We urge passengers to check in early and proceed directly to immigration for clearance,” Viado said on Monday.

“This will help ensure a more relaxed travel experience and prevent unnecessary delays.”  

The reminder comes as the BI prepares for a significant increase in international travelers during the holidays. 

Viado noted that past observations showed many passengers contribute to airport congestion by delaying their immigration clearance despite arriving early.  

The BI also reminded specific groups of travelers to fulfill additional documentation requirements in advance. 

Foreign tourists who have stayed in the Philippines for over six months, and registered foreigners with Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) I-Cards, are advised to secure their clearances at BI district, field, satellite, or extension offices nationwide. 

According to Viado, this step can reduce queuing time by up to 50 percent.  

For last-minute concerns, the BI’s One-Stop Shop at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 remains operational 24/7 to assist foreign travelers with their immigration needs.  

BI likewise said that Filipino government officials and employees were reminded to secure travel clearance from their department heads, while unaccompanied minors traveling abroad must present clearance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development.   

Despite the holiday rush, Viado assured the public that the BI has deployed sufficient personnel to maintain efficient operations at NAIA and other major airports nationwide.

Over 40,000 police officers are deployed across seaports, bus terminals, and airports during the holidays, according to the Philippine National Police.