New immigration office now open

CEBU, Philippines - The Bureau of Immigration-Cebu District has officially opened their new satellite office at the second floor of J Center Mall in Mandaue City, bringing its services closer and more convenient to its clients.

“We hope that the spirit of bayanihan continues as the government cannot do this alone. We need help from the private sector and J Center Mall is giving us a very generous support,” said BI Commissioner Seigfred Mison who graced the inauguration and blessing of their new office.

Justine Uy, the mall owner, in his speech said that this is his way of helping the country’s investors and tourism sector in order to further improve the economy.

“J Mall is committed to help. We envision that all government agencies will be here for the good of the country. We all have to work together for the sake of our country,” Uy said.

A memorandum of agreement was signed between BI and J Center Mall on the use of the office space as rent-free for five years.

Casimiro Madarang III, BI-7 alien control officer, said that the mall’s management was the one who shouldered the P2-million expenses for partition and other office equipment.

“Ang among bayran kay kuryente ra,” Madarang said, adding that their old building in Barangay Tribunal will undergo repairs after it sustained cracks during the November 15 earthquake.

Madarang said that they usually entertain at least 500 clients per day in their previous office.

Their new office will open from Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 6:3 p.m.

Various services such as processing of application for tourist visa extension, special work permit application, BI certificates and clearances, among others will be processed in the new satellite office. —/ATO (FREEMAN)