The Department of Foreign Affairs – Office of Consular Affairs (DFA-OCA) reiterated that passport application across the Philippines is strictly by appointment only due to the prevailing national health emergency brought by COVID-19.
In an official statement posted on its website, the DFA said that passport appointment slots are limited by the maximum capacity of applicants and personnel allowed within our Consular Offices, in compliance with prescribed health and safety protocols, particularly physical distancing measures. Applicants are advised to book their appoinment via passport.gov.ph.
The DFA-OCA is constantly monitoring the situation and adjusting the available appointment slots, as appropriate, the statement added.
For individuals with urgent or emergency travel needs, they are advised to send an email to DFA-OCA through oca.cl@dfa.gov.ph or visit the nearest Consular Office for early accommodation. Applicants are required to present proof of urgent travel so the Consular Office can attend immediately to request.
In Negros Occidental, applicants may visit DFA at 3rd Floor Robinsons Place Bacolod, Brgy. Mandalangan, Bacolod City. The agency is open Mondays – Fridays 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.
The agency hopes for public understanding as adjustments are made to operate under the “new normal” in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
