DOLE orders full centralization of AEP processing nationwide

Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Francis N. Tolentino has ordered the full centralization of the processing, evaluation, and issuance of Alien Employment Permits (AEPs) at the DOLE Central Office, effective 09 June 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen oversight and ensure the uniform implementation of labor regulations concerning foreign nationals seeking employment in the Philippines.

Under Administrative Order No. 199, Series of 2026, all DOLE Regional Offices shall immediately cease accepting, processing, evaluating, and issuing both new and renewal AEP applications, with all transactions to be handled exclusively by the Central Office.

The directive is part of the Department’s ongoing efforts to strengthen administrative oversight, enhance regulatory compliance, and ensure greater consistency in implementing policies governing the employment of foreign nationals.

The centralization of AEP processing also supports the Department’s broader initiatives on systems optimization, streamlined service delivery, and more effective monitoring and auditing of regulatory processes nationwide.

Any AEP application received by the DOLE Regional Offices on or before the close of business hours on 08 June 2026 that remains pending shall be immediately prepared for digital transfer to the DOLE Central Office.

Upon receipt, the Central Office shall assume full responsibility for the evaluation, processing, and disposition of pending applications. The applicable processing period shall continue from the point at which the application was transferred, ensuring that the applicant incurs no delay or penalty in accordance with the provisions of the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act.

The Bureau of Local Employment, meanwhile, shall directly administer and implement the required local publication and Labor Market Test procedures through a localized digital platform and coordinated labor registries, thereby ensuring the integrity and consistency of the domestic labor market vetting process.

To protect the sensitive personal information of foreign nationals and ensure compliance with the Data Privacy Act of 2012, the transfer of all records and application data shall be completed within five calendar days from the effectivity of the Administrative Order. The transfer shall strictly adhere to established Data Transfer Protocols, including end-to-end encryption and verified chain-of-custody documentation.