The Bureau of Immigration-Bacolod collected P7.54 million in immigration fees from January to September of this year, surpassing its total collection of P7.51 million in 2004, which it attributes to its strict implementation of the law.

Mita Chuvy Arguelles, Bacolod alien control officer, said her office has received a total of 2, 716 visa applications from those who extended their stay in Bacolod City as of September.

Among the immigrants in Bacolod City, she said, Korean nationals topped the list, with a total number of 498, Japanese - 24, Chinese - 6, American - 4, Swiss - 1, Pakistani - 1 and Tunisian - 1.

She said her office has issued 537 special study permit to foreign students studying in various accredited school, universities and language centers in Bacolod City and Negros Occidental.

Records showed that a total of 537 students applied for special study permits from January - 133, February - 85, March - 32, April - 21, May - 13, June - 35, July - 133, August - 34, Sept.- 49. Arguelles said she is expecting more foreigners to visit Bacolod, especially during the coming MassKara Festival, that will officially open today and for the South East Asian Games in November.

She said about 800 athletes, 500 VIPs and 200 media from different countries, are expected to come in Bacolod City during the SEA-Games, aside from the tourists who will watch the various events.*DMG

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