A group of Afghan nationals arrived in the Philippines on Monday as part of a bilateral agreement with the United States to process their special immigrant visas for resettlement in America. The arrangement underscores the Philippines’ role in providing temporary refuge to individuals who once worked with the US government in Afghanistan.
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Last July, the Philippines agreed to host a US immigrant visa processing centre for a limited number of Afghan nationals. This initiative aims to support those eligible for resettlement in the US under special immigrant visa programmes.
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) spokesperson Teresita Daza confirmed that the Afghans were granted entry visas upon arrival. According to Daza, all individuals underwent rigorous security vetting and comprehensive medical screenings before travelling to the Philippines.
“The US government will bear all costs associated with their stay in the Philippines, including food, housing, security, medical care, and transportation,” she said.
Limited numbers and duration
While the precise number of arrivals remains undisclosed, a senior Philippine official previously indicated that only 150 to 300 applicants would be accommodated under the one-time agreement. The official, who spoke anonymously due to a lack of authorisation to comment publicly, added that the arrangement was temporary.
Under Philippine regulations, visa applicants are allowed to stay for a maximum of 59 days. The duration of the visa processing period, however, was not specified.
A safe haven for Afghan allies
The Afghan nationals seeking resettlement are primarily individuals who worked for or supported the US government during its two-decade presence in Afghanistan. Many of these individuals became stranded when the Taliban regained control of the country in 2021 following the chaotic withdrawal of US forces.
The special immigrant visa programme is designed to provide a pathway to safety for those who face heightened risks under Taliban rule due to their association with the US.
US-Philippines partnership
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken first discussed the resettlement arrangement with his Philippine counterpart in 2022. The agreement was later endorsed by US President Joe Biden and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during discussions last year.
The Philippines’ decision to assist Afghan visa applicants reflects the strengthening ties between Manila and Washington. Since taking office in a landslide victory two years ago, Marcos has sought to revitalise relations with the US, marking a shift from the policies of his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte.
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In February last year, President Marcos approved an expansion of US military access under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) of 2014. This move, seen as a response to rising regional tensions, notably displeased China.
Challenges ahead
While the programme highlights the Philippines’ commitment to humanitarian efforts, it also presents logistical and administrative challenges. The limited 59-day stay for visa applicants underscores the urgency of completing the process efficiently.
Critics have raised concerns about the sustainability of such initiatives and their implications for the country’s resources. However, the assurance that the US will shoulder all expenses has alleviated some apprehensions.
A step toward safety
For the Afghan nationals who arrived on Monday, the Philippines represents a crucial waypoint on their journey to resettlement and safety. As they await the completion of their visa processes, the initiative offers hope to individuals who have faced prolonged uncertainty since the fall of Kabul.
This partnership between the US and the Philippines not only underscores the two nations’ shared commitment to supporting vulnerable populations but also signals the potential for broader collaboration on humanitarian and regional security issues in the future.
