Representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) took part in the media press conference called “Kapihan sa SM” yesterday, August 30.
The leadership of the Philippine Consular Office of the DFA, led by Mr. Carolina Constantino, joyfully shared the increasing percentage of passport applications in Puerto Princesa City and the province of Palawan. According to their data, 60% are new applicants, 38% are renewals, and 2% percent pertain to lost passports.
A significant number of passport applications are also from individuals planning vacations in other countries, accounting for 4,967 people or 72%; 25% of these applications are from those intending to work abroad.s
The availability of direct flights from Puerto Princesa International Airport to other countries is believed to have contributed to the positive application turnout.
Additionally, the online system has greatly expedited and guaranteed the processing of applications. However, there have been cases of rejected applications due to a lack of necessary documents, which amount to 25-35% per day.
Mr. Adignita Elijan, Family Welfare Officer of OWWA, reported that their office continues to provide various benefits to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the city and province.
This includes different loan applications for active OFWs and those who have completed their work contracts abroad. The scholarship program for the college beneficiaries of an OFW is also being extended as long as the student goes through the process and meets the required academic standards.