ECOZONE locators are worried about the government’s new employment permit rules for foreigners, the Clark Development Corp. (CDC) said on Sunday.
On June 11, CDC management led by president and CEO Agnes Devanadera held an online meeting with more than 160 locators to discuss Administrative Order 199, series of 2026, from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) saying that the processing of Alien Employment Permits (AEPs) will no longer be handled by its regional offices, and instead be exclusively done in its central office.
The directive, signed by Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino, took effect on June 9.
Ecozone locators raised concerns on application procedures, timelines, payment arrangements, release of alien employment permit (AEP) cards, and pending applications filed before the new policy.
An alien employment permit is issued by DOLE authorizing foreign nationals to work in the Philippines and is required for certain visa applications and renewals.
For more than 15 years, Clark ecozone locators said they have relied on a Joint Memorandum Order framework involving CDC, DOLE, the Bureau of Immigration, and other agencies to streamline transactions while ensuring compliance with labor and immigration laws.
“CDC will coordinate with Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado on visa renewals, transition arrangements, downgrading requirements, and other immigration processes tied to AEPs,” Devanadera said, adding that she also wants to meet with Tolentino to present recommendations.
Locators are advised to review permits nearing expiration and file renewal applications early to avoid disruption under the new system, Devanadera said.
She also assured the firms that feedback gathered from the consultation will be consolidated and submitted to DOLE.
CDC stressed its commitment to align with national labor and immigration policies while ensuring ease of doing business for Clark locators. Chynna Grace Ong