PEZA, DOLE sign data sharing agreement to streamline visa processing

The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) have signed a data sharing agreement to streamline the PEZA visa application process as part of efforts to improve ease of doing business.

- By Louella Desiderio

In a statement, the investment promotion agency said the agreement aimed at streamlining the PEZA visa application and processing, was signed by PEZA director general Tereso Panga and Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma on Dec. 16.

The agreement provides a framework to facilitate secure and simplified information sharing, particularly in issuing the Alien Employment Permit (AEP), a prerequisite for PEZA visa issuance to foreign nationals seeking employment within PEZA economic zones.

According to Panga, the agreement would help foster a more business-friendly environment.