The Department of Justice (DOJ) has ordered immigration authorities to provide temporary visa relief to foreign nationals stranded in the Philippines due to canceled outbound flights amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Justice Secretary Frederick Vida on Friday directed the Bureau of Immigration to allow affected foreigners to extend their stay without penalties.
Under Department Order No. 159, issued Monday but publicized on Friday, foreign nationals whose visas expired on February 28 may legally remain in the country until April 1, 2026. The order also waives immigration fees, fines, and other penalties usually imposed on overstaying aliens.
“This is the Philippine government’s simple way of extending relief not only to those directly affected by the ongoing hostilities in the Middle East, but also a compassionate gesture of support to stand in solidarity with the whole world during this difficult time of socio-economic and political upheavals,” Vida said.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines reported 114 canceled international flights as of March 5, with one diversion.
On Friday, Cebu Pacific canceled three flights bound for Dubai and Riyadh, while Philippine Airlines suspended several routes to Doha, Riyadh, and Dubai.
The DOJ said the measure aims to assist travelers unable to leave the country due to flight disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict.