The Commission welcomes the decision of the Department of Justice to grant the appeal of Sister Patricia Fox to get back her missionary visa. This nullified the prior decision of the Bureau of Immigration to forfeit the missionary visa of the 71-year old Australian nun.
The resolution affirms the basic right to due process of everyone residing in the Philippines — whether Filipino or foreigner. Sister Patricia can now properly defend herself and the humanitarian work/service she did for the poor and disadvantaged communities, which she considers part of her mission.
We agree with Justice Secretary Menardo I. Guevarra in his position stressing that a legal basis is needed to withdraw a visa already granted to a foreigner. Moving forward, we are hopeful that proper procedures and protocols will be observed at all times to ensure rule of law. In this manner, we can guarantee and respect the fundamental rights and inherent dignity of everyone in our country regardless of race, citizenship, gender, among others. ■