Afghans Arrive in the Philippines for US Resettlement
Tens of thousands of Afghans fled their country in the chaotic evacuation of August 2021 as US and allied forces pulled out to end Washington’s longest war. (EPA Images pic)
First Wave of Afghans Arrives in the Philippines
Up to 300 Afghans arrived in the Philippines on Monday on temporary stays while being processed for US resettlement, Philippine and US officials said. This is the first wave of Afghans to arrive in the country under an agreement signed with the US last July, allowing possibly hundreds of Afghans to stay in Manila while their US special immigrant visas are being processed.
Background on the Agreement
The Philippines and the US signed the agreement in July, despite domestic opposition in the Catholic-majority country over security and other concerns. The agreement allows the Afghans to stay in Manila for a limited period while their US visas are being processed, with the US government shouldering the cost of their stays, including food, housing, medical care, security, and transport.
Security Vetting and Medical Screening
All applicants completed extensive security vetting by Philippines national security agencies, and underwent medical screening in Afghanistan. The Afghans will stay at a facility operated by the US state department’s coordinator for Afghan relocation efforts, where they will be confined to their billet facility except for embassy interviews. They will be allowed to stay for no more than 59 days.
US-Vietnam Agreement
The agreement is part of a broader effort by the US to resettle Afghans who worked with the US government or its allies in Afghanistan, including interpreters, translators, and others who face threats to their lives due to their associations. The US has a special immigrant visa program for these individuals, which allows them to relocate to the US.
Conclusion
The arrival of up to 300 Afghans in the Philippines marks an important step in the US efforts to resettle those who worked with the US government or its allies in Afghanistan. The agreement between the Philippines and the US is a testament to the strong partnership between the two countries, and demonstrates the US commitment to supporting those who have worked alongside US forces in Afghanistan.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many Afghans arrived in the Philippines?
Up to 300 Afghans arrived in the Philippines on Monday. - What is the purpose of the agreement between the Philippines and the US?
The agreement allows the Afghans to stay in Manila while their US special immigrant visas are being processed. - What is the duration of their stay in the Philippines?
The Afghans will stay in the Philippines for a maximum of 59 days. - Who is responsible for the cost of their stay in the Philippines?
The US government will shoulder the cost of the Afghans’ stays in Manila, including food, housing, medical care, security, and transport.