The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has completed the first phase of its expansion and upgrade of electronic immigration gates (e-Gates) at key provincial international airports to speed up passenger processing and strengthen border security.

In a statement on Saturday, Nov. 7, the BI said the first phase covered international gateways in Clark, Cebu and Davao.

The upgraded system includes an Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS), which enhances identity verification and helps detect multiple-nationality passport holders and other forms of fraud.

The technology is designed to help immigration authorities identify individuals who may pose immigration or security risks while allowing legitimate travelers to clear immigration faster.

The BI said the second phase is now undergoing procurement and will extend e-Gate services to more international airports in the provinces. The agency also pledged to livestream the bidding process to promote transparency.

Meanwhile, the BI said Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon's proposal to expand e-Gate access to all arriving and departing passengers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) aligns with its ongoing modernization efforts.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado said wider use of automated gates supports the government's push to digitalize public services and reduce airport queues.

Passengers who pass automated screening may use the e-Gates without routine face-to-face interviews. However, those flagged by the system or requiring further assessment will still be referred to immigration officers.

“Technology should allow us to process legitimate travelers faster while enabling our officers to focus on passengers who require closer scrutiny,” Viado said.

He added that expanding e-Gate access must be accompanied by reliable biometric verification and security checks to help combat human trafficking and other cross-border crimes.