Joe Pallugna THERE have been several fears and apprehensions borne out of lack of understanding of the recent rules laid down by US President Donald Trump on immigration. Arriving upon immigration counters in America has resulted in some refusals for entry of non-US citizens. Reports of angry arrivals have hogged the news channels as they have been refused entry under the new guidelines. But what concerns us most is the issue on whether Filipino tourists and returning immigrants to America are at risk of being refused entry. Knowing the recent rules will help us alleviate these fears. Those who are barred entry into the US are all refugees, new immigrants and all international students. That means that all refugee visas are put on hold and this type of visa will certainly result in denial of entry. New immigrants are also barred for the next 120 days as the government is reviewing all visas granted by the previous administration. So the new immigrants holding this type of visa should not attempt to enter the US in the next four months or until this issue is resolved with more clarity. This includes Filipinos. This caveat should be taken seriously by all Filipinos who recently received immigrant visas. They will be refused entry. Then we have the ban on all international students. I have heard of several student visas issued to tourism and hotel and restaurant management courses and cooking courses. These Filipino student visa holders should not attempt to enter the US now. Green card holders should not also attempt to enter the US now unless they have communicated with the proper immigration authorities and have obtained new clearances for entry. These green cards are subject to review now and a little uncertainty or question on the supporting documents in obtaining that green card can result in denial of re-entry into the US. These green card holders should better consult first an immigration lawyer. These new immigration policies of Donald Trump are meant only to prevent entry of terrorists into US territory. These are not meant to oppress people or to suppress the right to travel or of the liberty of abode. The absolute ban for 90 days of citizens of Iran, Iraq, Libya, Sudan, Somalia and Yemen, and the indefinite ban of Syrians resulted in chaos but Trump has stood steadfast in his decision for the safety of America. But how about tourist visa holders from the Philippines? Let me be clear on this--there is no ban on Filipino tourists. The only precaution remains the same as before. Do not bring prohibited items like fresh fruits and live plants and animals, do not bring documents like transcript of records and work papers. And answer the questions of the immigration officer with clarity and confidence. Any doubt of a traveller’s intention to enter the US other than tourism can result in refusal of entry. Let it be known that tourism is one of the primary sources of income of the US and the money spent by tourists helped propel the US economy for a long time. As clearly said by US State Department Spokesperson Mark Toner: “Filipinos remain welcome to the US.” So there you are. Tourists are welcome to enter the US. No need to fear of difficulty or even refusal of entry. E-mail: ajpallugna@gmail.com