At Duran & Duran-Schulze Law, we recognize the best approach that fits our clients’ needs. We are dedicated to providing legal services that address the complexities of immigration and visa matters. We also provide the best practical solution to lift our clients’ blacklist order and ensure that they will not face any other immigration issues for future transactions with the Bureau of Immigration (BI).
Additionally, we have documented a case study based on our experience in lifting blacklist orders of our clients with the BI. We have achieved a success rate of over 80% in assisting foreign clients with these cases.
Lifting a Blacklist Order from Philippine Immigration
Foreign nationals whose names are listed in the Bureau of Immigration (BI)’s blacklist system are prohibited from entering the Philippines. If they are already in the country and unaware that they are included in the Blacklist Order, they will be deported.
Under Philippine Immigration Act of 1940 or Commonwealth Act No. 613, foreign nationals are barred from entering the country if they are identified as:
- Sex offenders
- Violators of Philippine laws
- Criminally convicted
- Undocumented
- Supporters of subversive acts
These individuals are considered threats or liabilities to the country. In this regard, the Bureau of Immigration may decide to add individuals to a blacklist at its discretion. Being blacklisted has an effect on international mobility, job opportunities, and travel plans.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How to know if I am included in the Blacklist?
You or your duly authorized representative may inquire directly at the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to check whether your name is included in the blacklist system. Note that this follows procedures, such as submitting a request letter and providing any relevant documents.
Can my name from the Blacklist be removed?
Yes. It is highly advisable to consult with a lawyer or a law firm to assist you all throughout the process, which significantly increases the chances of a successful outcome in lifting the blacklist order.
What are the requirements for lifting a Blacklist Order?
To lift a Blacklist Order (BLO), the following documents are required to be submitted:
- Formal Petition Letter outlining the individual’s request to lift the blacklist
- Affidavit of Explanation addressing the reason for being blacklisted and justification for removal
- Copy of Deportation Order, if applicable
- Police Clearance from the foreign national’s home country and the Philippines
- Visa Compliance Documents, if blacklisted due to visa-related issues
- Affidavit of No Pending Case
- Clearance from Other Government Agencies, depending on the nature of the blacklisting
- Proof of Settlement of Obligations, if blacklisting was due to any financial obligations
What will happen if I fail to lift my Blacklist Order?
You will not be allowed to enter the Philippines as long as you are not lifting the Order. Even applying for a new visa or attempting to enter the country will be automatically denied. Thus, seeking legal assistance is highly recommended.
What are the other enforcement derogatory records in ports of exit?
Other than the blacklist order (BLO), the following are other enforcement derogatory records in port of exit, pursuant to Section 3 of Commonwealth Act No. 613:
- Alert List Order (ALO) is issued against individuals who have a warrant of arrest. These individuals shall be turned-over to the Philippine National Police (PNP) or National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
- Watchlist Order (WLO) is issued by the Bureau of Immigration (BI), in which any person whose name is in the list shall be denied departure. It serves as a temporary measure to monitor an individual who is under preliminary criminal investigation, has pending criminal charges, or is involved in activities that are required to be monitored by the authorities. If the case progresses to the court, the WLO will be issued as an HDO by the Regional Trial Court.
- Hold Departure Order (HDO) prevents individuals from leaving the country when sufficient evidence suggests they may attempt to leave the country before charges are filed.
If you find your name on the Bureau of Immigration’s derogatory records list, it is strongly recommended that you seek legal counsel.
Duran & Duran-Schulze Law Can Help
Legal Assistance
We are committed to assist our clients on lifting their blacklist orders. With our knowledge and expertise, we can identify possible problems through the process and provide practical solutions on how to resolve them.
Assist for Filing Petition
To lift a blacklist order, individuals are required to file a petition to the Bureau of Immigration (BI). In this regard, Duran & Duran-Schulze can assist you in this process as we offer legal services such as document authentication and background checks.
Appeal the Blacklist Decision
Our well-experienced lawyers can help you in preparing and filing a compelling appeal to the BI to reject the blacklist decision. We ensure to protect your rights and to come up with the favorable result.
