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| The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Consular Office in Tacloban investigates reports of individuals offering online appointment services for passport slots. Photo: DFA Tacloban |
TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Consular Office in Tacloban has issued a warning regarding unauthorized online passport appointment services. It has come to their attention that certain individuals falsely claim to secure passport slots for applicants online.
Audrey Lilang, the Information Officer at DFA Consular Office Tacloban, revealed that they have received reports about people offering such services.
Lilang explained that these unauthorized services promise applicants a guaranteed passport slot. However, it is important to note that the DFA does not operate in connection with any travel agencies, computer shops, fixers, or appointment setters.
She clarified that neither the DFA Consular Office Tacloban nor any other branches of the DFA are affiliated with these entities.
While investigations are ongoing, the suspects involved in these allegations will be placed on the DFA's lookout list, preventing them from renewing or obtaining passports. The DFA emphasizes its commitment to ensuring the integrity of the passport application process and warns the public against falling prey to these unauthorized services.
The Consular Office in Tacloban accommodates up to 200 individuals daily for passport processing, serving their requirements efficiently. Additionally, the office has opened 100 slots per day for the month of August 2023.
However, Lilang stressed the importance of balancing service quality with operational capacity, ensuring that the office can provide the best possible assistance to its clients.
"We also don't want to compromise the kind of work that we do para ha atun katawhan. Kay bangin mag sosobra kami, diri lugod maasikaso an atun mga kliyente. As much as possible, we like nga magin maupay an atun serbisyo [We don't want to compromise the quality of our work for our people. If we exceed our capacity, we may not be able to serve our clients effectively. As much as possible, we strive to deliver excellent service]," Lilang clarified.
The DFA Consular Office Tacloban advises all passport applicants to refrain from engaging with unauthorized services and instead follow the official channels provided by the DFA. The office remains committed to upholding the integrity of the passport application process and ensuring a smooth experience for all applicants. —iTacloban (Source: Bombo Radyo)