DFA rejects corruption allegations as Remulla calls for outsourcing visa processing

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 26, 2026

The Department of Foreign Affairs has pushed back against Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla’s proposal to remove visa-processing responsibilities from the agency, insisting that it does not tolerate corruption amid renewed scrutiny of how foreign nationals are screened before entering the Philippines.

Remulla called for visa processing to be outsourced to a private service provider, such as VFS Global, questioning the DFA’s ability to conduct adequate background checks on foreigners seeking entry into the country.

Speaking on a radio program, Remulla argued that visa issuance is primarily an immigration concern that should fall under the Department of Justice (DOJ). He also alleged that visa processing, particularly in China, had become a source of business for the DFA.

The Ombudsman’s remarks followed concerns surrounding the Philippines’ visa-free entry policy for Chinese tourists and whether the arrangement may have contributed to the expansion of Philippine offshore gaming operator activities.

Remulla described visa processing as largely administrative work and said outsourcing it could help improve the screening of foreign applicants. He also argued that the DFA should focus on its diplomatic responsibilities.

The proposal, however, raises questions about the division of responsibilities among government agencies and the safeguards needed to protect national security while maintaining the country’s visa services.

The DFA has previously defended its authority to issue Philippine visas, citing the legal framework governing its work through foreign service posts. It has also maintained that the Bureau of Immigration provides an additional layer of screening when foreign nationals seek admission into the country.

The debate comes as authorities continue examining immigration procedures and the possible security implications of allowing foreign nationals to enter the Philippines without visas.

While outsourcing could shift some administrative tasks to a private provider, the government would still need to establish clear accountability, screening standards and oversight mechanisms to ensure that visa processing remains consistent with Philippine law and national security requirements.

The disagreement places the DFA’s existing mandate under renewed scrutiny, with the broader question centering on how the country can strengthen immigration checks while ensuring transparency and accountability in government operations.