DOLE Centralizes Alien Employment Permit Processing for Efficiency

Secretary Francis N. Tolentino 

DOLE Centralizes Alien Employment Permit Processing for Efficiency

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | June 10, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is implementing a significant shift in its Alien Employment Permit (AEP) processing, with Secretary Francis N. Tolentino mandating the full centralization of all AEP applications at the DOLE Central Office, effective June 9, 2026. 

This strategic move aims to fortify administrative oversight, ensure uniform policy implementation, and optimize service delivery for foreign nationals seeking employment in the Philippines.

Under Administrative Order No. 199, Series of 2026, all DOLE Regional Offices will cease accepting, processing, evaluating, and issuing both new and renewal AEP applications. All such transactions will now be exclusively managed by the Central Office.

This directive underscores DOLE’s commitment to strengthening regulatory compliance and achieving greater consistency in policies governing foreign national employment. 

The centralization initiative is a cornerstone of broader departmental efforts toward systems optimization, streamlined service delivery, and more effective monitoring and auditing of regulatory processes nationwide.

AEP applications received by Regional Offices before the close of business on June 8, 2026, will be digitally transferred to the DOLE Central Office. Upon receipt, the Central Office will assume full responsibility for evaluation, processing, and disposition. 

The processing period will seamlessly continue from the transfer point, ensuring no delay or penalty to applicants, in full accordance with the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act.

Crucially, the Bureau of Local Employment will directly administer and implement the required local publication and Labor Market Test procedures through a localized digital platform and coordinated labor registries. This ensures the integrity and consistency of the domestic labor market vetting process.

To safeguard the sensitive personal information of foreign nationals and ensure adherence to the Data Privacy Act of 2012, all record and application data transfers will be completed within five calendar days of the Administrative Order’s effectivity. 

These transfers will strictly follow established Data Transfer Protocols, including end-to-end encryption and verified chain-of-custody documentation.

*         *         *

Influence the Influential. Power Truth. TheNATIONWEEK.com

More than news: we are a defining force in independent journalism, delivering rigorous, unbiased reporting to an engaged, opinion-shaping audience that values integrity. Partner with us to align your brand with trust, reach discerning leaders, and amplify your impact. Your message. Our mission. Unrivaled engagement. Email nationweek@yahoo.com today.