Manila, Philippines — The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) continues to champion transparency and integrity in the United States-Philippines Exchange Visitor Program (EVP), urging Filipino applicants to engage directly with accredited U.S. sponsors as part of its strengthened efforts to uphold the program’s integrity and protect participants from exploitation.
Kris Gacer, Senior Emigrant Services Officer of the CFO’s Project Management Division (PMD) clarified procedures for aspiring EVP participants, emphasizing the importance of accessing verified information and going through legitimate channels.
“Sa mga mag-a-apply ng participation sa EVP, as much as possible we want to promote direct applications to their program sponsors,” Gacer said.
“May designated visa sponsors po ang U.S. government sa J-1 Program. Makikita po ito directly sa official J1 website ng U.S. government. Nandoon po ang listahan ng mga possible na sponsors depending on the categories,” she added.
Gacer highlighted that the EVP, administered under the J-1 visa classification, is a U.S. State Department initiative designed to foster cultural and educational exchange. It includes various categories such as interns, trainees, teachers, physicians, and researchers, each with designated sponsors who are vetted and recognized by the U.S. government.
This advisory comes in light of increasing concerns over third-party agents and unauthorized recruitment activities that have misled or financially burdened applicants. The CFO urges individuals to perform due diligence and consult only with official sources when planning their EVP journey.
Gacer also reminded participants of the critical step of registering with the Commission on Filipinos Overseas stating that it may be a cause of delay if EVP participants do not register immediately right after receiving their visas.
“Pag meron na po kayong visa, dapat po mag-register po kayo sa CFO. Dahil kung wala po kayong certificate from CFO, hindi po kayo makakaalis,” Gacer said.
The CFO’s registration process ensures that outbound EVP participants are equipped with the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS), support services, and a certificate of registration which are requirements strictly enforced by immigration authorities at Philippine ports of exit.
The Commission reiterates that EVP registration is not just a legal requirement, but a safeguard designed to educate Filipinos about their rights and responsibilities abroad, prevent human trafficking, and ensure their overall welfare during their overseas engagement.
About the Exchange Visitor Program (EVP)
The EVP is part of a bilateral exchange initiative between the United States and the Philippines that provides Filipino nationals opportunities for cultural and professional development in the U.S. The CFO is the Philippine implementing agency tasked with monitoring compliance, supporting participants, and protecting them throughout the duration of their exchange program.
For More Information:
Applicants are encouraged to visit the official website of the U.S. Department of State to verify J-1 sponsors and EVP categories: https://j1visa.state.gov
To register for EVP and access services from the Commission on Filipinos Overseas, visit www.cfo.gov.ph or email the EVP Secretariat at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
MEDIA CONTACT:
RK PERALTA
Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO)
20th and 21st Floors, The Upper Class Tower
Quezon Avenue cor. Scout Reyes St., Brgy. Paligsahan, Diliman
Quezon City 1103, Philippines
Tel: (+632) 8552-4700 loc. 785
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
