The Manila Times
THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is reminding the public to secure passport appointments only through its official online appointment system, warning applicants against unauthorized individuals and online entities falsely offering appointment booking services. In an advisory, the DFA said passport applicants should use only the official DFA Online Appointment System accessible through the DFA Passport Appointment System website at passport.gov.ph to ensure that appointments are valid, secure and properly recorded. Through the official portal, applicants may choose their preferred passport processing site, appointment date and time, and complete all required personal information for their passport application. The DFA issued the reminder amid reports of unauthorized groups and social media pages claiming to offer assistance in securing passport appointment slots. Among those identified was the Facebook page “Philippine Passport Online Assistant,” which the DFA clarified is not affiliated with the department. According to the DFA, these individuals and entities claim special access to passport appointment slots. Such activities are a violation of Republic Act 11983, or the New Philippine Passport Act, as well as its implementing rules and regulations. It cautioned the public against paying fixers or third-party agents who may charge excessive fees, compromise applicants’ personal information or provide fraudulent appointment confirmations. Applicants who encounter suspicious online activities, fake appointment services or unauthorized passport assistance providers are encouraged to report them to the nearest DFA Consular Office. Reports may also be submitted through the official email addresses listed in the Consular Office directory available on the DFA Consular website. The DFA reiterated its commitment to protecting the integrity of the passport application process and urged the public to remain vigilant against online scams and fraudulent schemes targeting passport applicants. For official announcements and additional information, the public may visit the DFA Consular website at consular.dfa.gov.ph.
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