admin The Philippines is poised for a significant transformation in its travel and tourism sector with the formal adoption of the eTravel system. Instituted by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. through Administrative Order (AO) 24, this system is now the standardised process for all international passengers and crew members entering or exiting the country. The initiative is designed to streamline border control, health surveillance, and tourism data analysis, offering a more efficient and modernised experience for travellers and the broader industry.
Enhancing Efficiency and Security in Travel
The eTravel system serves as a comprehensive electronic travel declaration platform, simplifying the procedures for international travel to and from the Philippines. With the issuance of AO 24, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, the system is now a key component of the country’s efforts to enhance border control and manage health-related data more effectively. The system consolidates multiple travel requirements into a single QR code, significantly reducing the time spent on documentation and minimising bottlenecks at entry and exit points.
In addition to improving efficiency, the system also incorporates features tailored to the needs of different traveller categories, including overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). This flexibility makes the system more versatile and user-friendly, catering to the diverse needs of international travellers.
Collaborative Oversight and Continuous Improvement
To ensure the successful implementation and ongoing enhancement of the eTravel system, a Technical Working Group (TWG) has been established. Chaired by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and co-chaired by the Bureau of Immigration (BI), the TWG includes key government agencies such as the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ). This collaboration is crucial for the system’s success, ensuring it meets the needs of all stakeholders while adhering to the Data Privacy Act of 2012.
The funding for the eTravel system’s development and maintenance will be sourced from the existing budgets of these agencies, ensuring that the system remains sustainable and can be continuously improved without additional financial strain on the government.
A Modern Solution for a Growing Tourism Sector
The institutionalisation of the eTravel system marks a pivotal moment for the Philippines’ travel industry. By streamlining processes and enhancing security, the system is expected to make the Philippines a more attractive destination for international tourists, while also providing the government with valuable data to inform future tourism strategies. As the Philippines integrates this system into its travel infrastructure, it is set to play a critical role in shaping the future of tourism in the country, aligning with global trends toward digitisation and modernised travel experiences.
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