The Department of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday warned the public against seeking passport appointments assistance via social media groups and third-party individuals offering help online.
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The DFA said it received reports of passport applicants who booked appointments via unknown individuals online and ended up paying more than what is collected for passport issuance.
Applicants also received tampered application forms with incorrect instructions, and were told to proceed to the DFA's consular office at a date different from the actual appointment schedule and site.
Those who made appointments via third parties may call the DFA hotline 8234 – 3488 to verify their schedule. Applications made via third parties will be accepted for processing only after the appointment and the identity of the applicant has been verified, and processing will only be done at the consular office where the appointment was made.
Applicants can book appointments themselves directly at the DFA website and are advised to use their own e-mail address and mobile number so they can receive correct information regarding their appointment in a timely manner.
Passport appointment slots are limited due to the consular premises' reduced operating capacity, but those with urgent travel requirements such as Overseas Filipino Workers may e-mail the oca.cl@dfa.gov.ph for accommodation in DFA Aseana, or at the nearest consular office by sending an appointment request by e-mail to the concerned office directly.
A full list of the DFA's consular offices and contact details can be found on the DFA website.