Traveling can be complex and challenging. You may encounter issues such as delayed or missed flights and long waiting times, which are often unavoidable. These situations can test one’s patience and lead to frustration, especially when they expect a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. Unfortunately, this frustration may result in rude or disrespectful behavior towards immigration officers, which could lead to being included on a blacklist order.
What is a Blacklist Order?
According to the Bureau of Immigration (BI), a blacklist order prohibits a foreign national from entering the country. The BI issues the blacklist to foreign nationals who are seen as risks or threats to the public safety of the country.
Foreign nationals who violate the Philippine law are automatically reported in the BI’s blacklist system. Additionally, individuals with criminal records or who are wanted in their home countries are also included in the list. If a blacklisted foreigner is already in the Philippines and unaware of their order, they will be barred from entering the country upon their arrival and sent back to their home country.
How to Lift a Blacklist Order in the Philippines?
To lift a blacklist order due to rude and disrespectful behavior toward immigration officers, the individual must follow these procedures:
- Request for Removal. The blacklisted individual must file a letter of request for blacklist removal to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner. In the letter, they shall include the reason of being listed and apologize for their misbehavior.
- Submission of Documents. Other than the letter of request, they shall include supporting documents that may prove their legal entry in the country. These documents must be submitted in the BI office.
- Pay Fees. They are required to pay the necessary fee.
- Review and Decision. Once the necessary documents are submitted, the BI will review the provided documents and make a decision. The process will depend on the complexity of the case.
- Approval by the BI. If granted, the individual can enter the country. While if denied, they can file a motion for reconsideration to the BI.
Furthermore, it is advisable to consult with a lawyer regarding immigration concerns. They can assist you on preparing and filing the petition and provide legal remedies on how to resolve the issue.
How Much Does Lifting a Blacklist Order Cost in the Philippines?
Based on the Immigration Memorandum Circular No. SBM-2015-010, the following fees cost:
Type of Fee | Cost |
Filing Fee | PHP 2,000.00 |
Implementation Fee | PHP 2,000.00 |
Service Fee | PHP 1,000.00 |
Legal Research Fee | PHP 20.00 |
What Behaviors are Considered Rude and Disrespectful in Immigration?
According to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) spokesperson Dana Sandoval, the Bureau has strictly implemented a policy prohibiting the entry of misbehaving foreign nationals against immigration officers. The following actions and languages are considered rude and disrespectful toward immigration officers:
- Being discourteous with the immigration rules;
- Using foul and indecent language when talking to immigration officers;
- Insulting or saying unpleasant words to immigration officers;
- Behaving in an outraged manner;
- Refusing to listen or follow instructions from crew members;
- Making bomb threats jokes;
- Hitting the cabin crew or immigration officers;
- Refusing to fasten the seatbelt;
- Being physically disruptive; and
- Shouting or speaking in a hostile tone.
How to Manage a Rude and Disrespectful Behavior?
Having a stressful travel experience can lead to frustration and impatience. However, treating people with respect, no matter where you are, is important. In this regard, the following may help you prevent rudeness or being disrespectful toward the immigration officers, crew members, and others:
- Remember to Breathe. Take a moment to breathe in and out before reacting. This can help you think clearly and avoid regretting what you will say or do later. Additionally, breathing is a good technique to calm ourselves in stressful and frantic situations.
- Listen Actively and Carefully. Always pay attention when someone is speaking and wait for your turn. Listening can help us understand someone and help us gather our thoughts before we respond. If you have some clarifications or questions about what they said, ask them politely and do not dismiss their words.
- Check Your Tone of Voice and Body Language. A loud voice is perceived as being aggressive or dominant, while a monotone voice sounds uninterested and bored. Therefore, ensure to speak with a neutral tone to sound more approachable and be mindful of your body language, as it can convey your feelings and intentions.
- Control Frustration and Anger. If you feel overwhelmed, try to remove yourself from the situation for a few minutes then get back to the once you are ready to have the discussion. By doing this, it can save you from saying something rude or offensive that you might regret later and prepare you to engage in the discussion calmly.
- Avoid Inappropriate Jokes. When you are at an airport or on board a flight, please refrain from making jokes related to plane crashes, bomb threats, explosions, or anything that could cause panic or confusion among the public. Under Presidential Decree No. 1727, bomb jokes are prohibited, and any individual making such jokes will be taken seriously by security and law enforcement authorities.
- Learn to Apologize. Acknowledging mistakes and apologizing shows accountability for what you have done or said. Therefore, by apologizing, you recognize what you did and how it made the other person feel.
What are the Other Reasons to be Blacklisted in the Philippines?
Pursuant to the Philippine Immigration Act or Commonwealth Act No. 613, a foreign national who has been identified as the following are barred from entering the country:
- Sex Offenders
- Violators of Philippine Laws
- Convicted criminals
- Undocumented foreign national
- Supporters of subversive acts
Moreover, if you got blacklisted for the reason/s mentioned, it is important to seek legal advice from a law firm or lawyer experienced in immigration matters. They can assist you in processing the necessary documents to remove your name from the list and explain the reasons for your inclusion and the applicable legal remedies.
Need further information and assistance regarding Blacklist Order? Talk to our team at Duran & Duran-Schulze Law to know more about the requirements and process. Call us today at (+632) 8478 5826 or +63 917 194 0482, or send an email to info@duranschulze.com for more information.
