SEN. Christopher “Bong” Go has introduced Senate Bill (SN) 1791, a measure seeking to modernize the Bureau of Immigration (BI), expand and rationalize its organizational structure, and upgrade the compensation and benefits of its officials and employees. The proposed legislation aims to strengthen the country’s immigration system to effectively address evolving global and domestic security challenges, including cross-border terrorism and child sexual abuse. Also, Go emphasized that modernizing the agency could enhance its ability to respond to emerging threats while improving service delivery to the public. Under the bill, existing BI positions will be upgraded, and additional plantilla positions created, to meet the growing demand for immigration services. The measure also mandates adjustments of salary grades, emoluments, and other personnel benefits to address disparities with other government agencies performing comparable functions. “The creation of new positions and the enhancement of compensation will boost productivity and efficiency within the Bureau,” Go said, underscoring the need to professionalize the agency and ensure that its workforce is adequately supported. The BI serves as the State’s primary enforcement arm in ensuring that foreigners within Philippine territory comply with immigration and related laws. It is responsible for administering and enforcing policies on immigration, citizenship, and alien admission under the decades-old Philippine Immigration Act of 1940. Javier Joe Ismael Go noted that the legal framework governing the BI traces back to Commonwealth Act 613, enacted during the American colonial period. While amendments have been introduced over time, he said the current system remains constrained by outdated mechanisms that hamper operational efficiency and the delivery of quality public service. Likewise, the senator emphasized that modernizing the BI is crucial as the country experiences a steady increase in immigration transactions and cross-border movement. He argued that reforming the agency’s structure and providing sufficient funding would not only address longstanding institutional gaps but also ensure preparedness against new and emerging security risks. SB 1791 includes provisions appropriating the necessary funds for its implementation. Go expects the swift approval of the measure, saying it would reinforce national security, promote professionalism within the agency, and strengthen the Philippines’ overall immigration system.