The National Competitiveness Council (NCC) yesterday cited the initial positive results of the full implementation of a government policy that allows the speedy issuance of visas (particularly pre-arranged visas upon arrival) to foreign traders, business guests and prospective investors.
The National Competitiveness Council (NCC) yesterday cited the initial positive results of the full implementation of a government policy that allows the speedy issuance of visas (particularly pre-arranged visas upon arrival) to foreign traders, business guests and prospective investors.

These foreigners, however, must have the endorsement of their visit by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) / Board of Investments (BOI) and key business chambers such as the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FFCCCI) and the foreign chambers such as the American Chamber of Commerce and the Indian Chamber of Commerce.

Facilitating the entry and exit and business transactions of legitimate prospective investors and traders is a priority project of the NCC, to help enhance the competitiveness of the country's industries and services in the world market.

"If we can convince investors that we have installed systems and procedures that will allow them to come in without unnecessary delay and transact business with dispatch, that will send a strong message that we truly value them, and more of them will come,” NCC Co-Chair Private Sector Ambassador Cesar B. Bautista said.

Bautista cited the case of Indian businessmen, who are of particular importance in the business processing industry, and who are elated at the ease with which they can now obtain their pre-arranged visas upon arrival.

Holders of the new ACR- I Cards find it very convenient, as there is now no need to ask for permits every time they leave the country. Instead, they only have to present their cards to Immigration, which shall then swipe them. The ACR-I cards also allow holders to arrange for advance payments of fees to Immigration authorities.