MANILA — The Bureau of Immigration reminded travelers during Holy Week to arrive at airports at least three hours before departure and to have all required travel documents ready to avoid delays.

Passengers are required to secure an eTravel clearance, which can be completed through the website eTravel.gov.ph or via the eGovPH super app at least 72 hours prior to their flight.

Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the BI is preparing for higher passenger volume at major international airports during the peak travel period.

The operator of Ninoy Aquino International Airport, New NAIA Infra Corp., expects about 1.35 million passengers from March 28 to April 5, Easter Sunday.

“Our officers are fully deployed to ensure smooth and efficient processing, but we strongly advise the public to arrive early and come prepared with complete documents,” Viado said.

Foreign nationals who have stayed in the Philippines for over six months are reminded to secure their Emigration Clearance Certificates before departure. Registered foreigners with ACR I-Cards (Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Cards) are also advised to obtain reentry permits in advance from BI offices or the BI one-stop shop at NAIA.

Filipino government employees traveling abroad, even for personal reasons, must present a travel authority from their agency. Minors traveling alone or without their parents need a travel clearance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

Viado said early processing of requirements helps reduce airport queues and ensures smoother travel. He also confirmed that the e-gates system is operational, cutting processing time and improving efficiency at immigration counters.