Law Summary
Purpose and Policy
- Legal Principle: The Executive Order aims to enhance the Philippines' attractiveness for foreign investments, advanced technology, and tourism by simplifying admission procedures for specific foreign nationals.
- Government Policy: The government seeks to remove barriers to travel and facilitate the entry of foreign tourists and investors.
Amendments to Existing Letters of Instructions
- Amended Provisions: The Executive Order amends specific paragraphs of Letter of Instructions No. 911 and No. 1093.
- Deleted Provisions: The prohibition on the change of status for temporary visitors holding certain passports (Hongkong-British, Macao-Portuguese, People’s Republic of China, or Taipei) without leaving the country is revoked.
- Implications: These foreign nationals are now permitted to change their admission status or classification without needing to depart the Philippines or secure visas from a Philippine consulate abroad.
Key Definitions
- Temporary Visitors: Foreign nationals holding passports or Certificates of Identity from Hongkong, Macao, the People’s Republic of China, or Taipei.
- Change of Admission Status: The process by which a foreign national alters their classification or visa status while remaining in the country.
Requirements and Procedures
- Application Process:
- Eligible temporary visitors can now apply for a change of status without having to exit the country.
- The process is designed to be streamlined for efficiency.
Effective Date
- Implementation: The Executive Order takes effect immediately upon issuance, dated January 8, 1992.
Authority
- Presidential Authority: Issued by Corazon C. Aquino, President of the Philippines, utilizing powers vested by law.
- Executive Secretary Endorsement: Signed by Franklin M. Drilon, Executive Secretary.
Key Takeaways
- Executive Order No. 502 amends existing regulations to facilitate the admission and stay of certain foreign nationals in the Philippines.
- Temporary visitors from specific regions can now change their visa status without leaving the country, promoting tourism and investment.
- The changes are effective immediately, enhancing the ease of travel and entry for targeted foreign groups.