MANILA–The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday announced that beginning May 2, passport online appointment slots for July to September 2018 will be opened.
The “freed” slots apply to all consular offices in the Philippines with the exception of DFA Aseana in Parañaque City.
In the advisory sent by DFA Assistant Secretary Elmer Cato, the agency said that pilot testing of ePayment in DFA Aseana is in its final stages.
“Once finalized — and we hope this to materialize very soon — ePayment will be fully implemented in all consular offices beginning with DFA Aseana,” DFA said.
The agency said that the pilot tests have shown “promising” results.
Show-up rates have risen to 95 percent and above, minimizing the number of slots wasted through non-appearance.
Bogus appointments were also eradicated as applicants now have to pay before an appointment is confirmed.
According the DFA, the time applicants spend at DFA has been reduced considerably, with ePayment decreasing the usual processing time.
Meanwhile, the DFA appealed for the public’s understanding and cooperation as the agency continues to implement measures to improve passporting services and increase capacity to serve applicants.
The DFA reminded the public that OFWs, senior citizens, persons with disability, solo parents, minors 7 years old and below and those with emergency and urgent travels may apply for or renew their passports at any consular office including DFA Aseana without an online appointment. (PNA)
