The Senate plans to request more information on the Philippine government’s decision to temporarily house Afghan refugees at the request of the United States, according to Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero. This inquiry will take place during the Senate’s deliberations on the Department of Foreign Affairs’ (DFA) budget.
“We will likely use the budget hearings to obtain details from the DFA regarding these matters,” Escudero stated in an interview, noting that the budget process is an opportunity to clarify such issues.
Escudero emphasized that the agreement is understood to be temporary, with Afghan refugees expected to stay only until their Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) are processed for resettlement in the United States. He added that while the US made the promise to relocate the refugees to America, not the Philippines, the details of their stay in the country remain under the DFA’s jurisdiction.
The DFA announced that the US government will cover the costs of necessary services for these Afghan nationals, including food, housing, and medical care, during their stay in the Philippines. However, the exact number of refugees and the location of their accommodations have not been disclosed.
Senator Francis Tolentino expressed support for hosting the refugees, emphasizing respect for international obligations and compassion. Conversely, Senator Imee Marcos, chairperson of the Senate foreign relations committee, called for greater transparency from the Executive Department and the DFA regarding the nature of the US request.
According to DFA spokesperson Teresita Daza, the agreement allows Afghan refugees to stay in the Philippines for no more than 59 days, subject to full security vetting and the issuance of appropriate visas. The refugees will remain confined to their billet facility, leaving only once for their consular interview at the US Embassy in Manila.
The agreement, being an executive one, only requires approval from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. before it becomes effective.