Aussie nun asks BI to renew her missionary visa

“Sr. Pat hopes that the CRU of the BI accepts her petition even if there is a pending deportation order against her. Said order is not yet final and executory as a motion for reconsideration has been filed on this,” the camp of the Australian nun said in a statement. (File Photo: CBCP News/Twitter)

MANILA — Australian nun Patricia Fox on Monday submitted to the Bureau of Immigration (BI) a petition for the renewal of her missionary visa.

In a two-page Letter Request for Renewal of Missionary, the Australian nun, through her counsel, lawyer Jobert Pahilga, is asking the BI to renew her missionary visa which expires on Sept. 5, 2018.

The letter was filed before the Central Receiving Unit (CRU) of the BI.

“Sr. Pat hopes that the CRU of the BI accepts her petition even if there is a pending deportation order against her. Said order is not yet final and executory as a motion for reconsideration has been filed on this,” the camp of the Australian nun said in a statement.

The CRU also has the duty to transmit the nun’s petition to the Board of Commissioners for their consideration so that whatever the Board decision may be, Fox will be able to avail of appropriate legal remedies to protect her rights as a duly-admitted missionary to the country.

“It would be good though if the Board of Commissioners renews her visa so that she could continue her missionary work among the deprived and the oppressed which she most cherishes,” the statement read.

“In return, the people that she serves also treasure their beloved advocate who continue to give them hope and inspiration,” it added.

On July 19, 2018, the BI issued a deportation order on Fox for actively participating in several political rallies in the country.