Despite a program facilitating the entry into the country of digital nomads, or people who use technology to work remotely, the government would ensure strict screening of Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) applications to prevent misuse and abuse of the visa privilege.

Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro assured that measures are in place to prevent foreign workers, particularly those linked to the shuttered Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), from circumventing or misusing their visa.

“There will be security features (in assessing DNV applications) in order to protect our country from any scammers or any violations of the law,” Castro told a press briefing in Malacañang on Monday.

A digital nomad works remotely using technology, allowing them to travel or live in various locations, often outside their home country. They rely on a stable internet connection to perform their job.

“We will be monitoring (the implementation of the DNV), unlike in the POGOs before. We will be securing the processes,” Castro said.

Castro emphasized that the influx of foreign workers with DNVs is expected to drive up tourist arrivals, ultimately boosting the country’s revenue.

“And it will definitely benefit the country and also the Filipino people,” she said.

Castro said the government plans to improve the country’s ports as the number of visiting tourists is expected to increase.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. issued Executive Order No. 86, which established a legal framework to facilitate the entry of digital nomads to further boost the country’s tourism and economy. | PND