MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has recorded the arrival of 1,951 foreign dignitaries and delegates attending the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, as authorities maintain heightened security measures at international ports across the country.
In an update on Sunday, November 15, the BI said the arrivals were recorded from November 3 to 15, 2026, based on data gathered as of 3 p.m.
The arriving participants included national leaders, ministers, senior government officials, and other delegates attending the regional gathering hosted by the Philippines.
Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, together with the bureau’s deputy commissioners, continued to personally supervise immigration operations to ensure the efficient processing of arriving dignitaries and delegates.
The BI said immigration personnel were providing continuous clearance services, port courtesies, and security coverage to facilitate the arrival of international guests while maintaining established border control procedures.
As part of security preparations for the summit, the bureau maintained heightened alert status at all international ports of entry and exit.
Immigration personnel were also placed on round-the-clock duty to ensure operational readiness and respond promptly to concerns involving arriving and departing international travelers.
The BI assigned representatives to the ASEAN Multi-Agency Coordinating Center (MAC) and Tactical Operations Center (TOC) to strengthen coordination with other government agencies involved in summit security.
These arrangements are intended to support real-time information sharing, coordinated responses, and the efficient movement of visiting officials throughout the international gathering.
The immigration measures form part of the government’s broader preparations to ensure the safety and security of foreign leaders, delegates, and other participants attending the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Metro Manila.
The regional gathering brings together Southeast Asian leaders and international partners for discussions on economic cooperation, regional security, and other issues affecting ASEAN member states.
The BI reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining efficient immigration services, strengthened border security, and close inter-agency coordination throughout the summit.
