Manila: The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has announced the release of PHP1.347 billion to further the development of electronic gates (e-gates) at major international gateways throughout the country. This initiative aims to enhance the immigration process at key airports and seaports.
According to Philippines News Agency, the e-gates project seeks to modernize and digitize the primary inspection process, improving passenger experience and addressing concerns related to congestion and security at immigration points. The project is currently in its second phase, following an earlier release of PHP1.976 billion to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) for the initial procurement of e-gates.
Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman emphasized the urgency of completing the procurement process to operationalize the E-gates Project swiftly. She stated, "We are appealing to the BI to finish the procurement immediately so we can fully operationalize the E-gates Project as soon as possible."
The existing e-gates at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) will be expanded to other major international gateways. The project plans to replace 50 percent of the manned inspection counters with advanced technology, as outlined in the project's modernization plan.
The deployment of e-gates and the corresponding allocation of funds will cover NAIA Terminals I and III, Clark International Airport, Mactan Cebu International Airport, Davao International Airport, Kalibo International Airport, Boracay-Caticlan International Airport, Zamboanga International Seaport, Laoag International Airport, Bohol-Panglao International Airport, and Puerto Princesa International Airport. The government targets full operational status of the e-gates by December 15 this year.
