Photo credit: PIA

More than 133,000 foreign nationals living in the Philippines have completed their mandatory annual reporting—and while the numbers dipped slightly, officials say it’s nothing out of the ordinary.

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported that 133,372 holders of immigrant and non-immigrant visas took part in this year’s Annual Report, conducted from January 1 to March 1.

According to Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, the figure is just a bit lower than last year’s turnout of around 135,000—roughly a 1.5 percent decrease.

But Viado isn’t concerned. He explained that small changes like this are expected, as the number of foreign nationals in the country naturally shifts year to year. Global trends also play a role, especially after the pandemic, which saw a decline in the number of foreigners residing in the Philippines.

Breaking down the numbers, BI Alien Registration Division Chief Jose Carlitos Licas said Chinese nationals made up the largest group of reportees at 50,094. They were followed by Indians, Americans, South Koreans, and Taiwanese. Interestingly, the top five nationalities remained the same as in last year’s report.

There’s also a noticeable shift in how people are filing their reports. More foreign nationals are now choosing to complete the process online—thanks to the BI’s upgraded digital system—while others still prefer to show up in person at field and satellite offices across the country.

The bureau said the virtual reporting option, part of its modernization efforts, has made the process faster and more convenient for many.

Under the Alien Registration Act of 1950, all registered foreign nationals in the Philippines are required to report to the BI within the first 60 days of each year.

Viado thanked those who complied and assured the public that the bureau will continue improving its services while keeping a close watch on immigration activities in the country.