On Monday, March 11, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) verified the enactment of a new passport legislation, streamlining the process of applying for passports online.
Replacing Republic Act No. 8239, the recent legislation empowers the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to extend passport services beyond consular offices and foreign service posts through offsite and mobile options.
The PCO highlights the directive for the department to establish and manage an accessible online application portal and Electronic One-Stop Shop on its official website.
Under the provisions of this law, the DFA is obligated to cater to the passport needs of various groups, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant women, minors aged seven years old and below, solo parents, overseas Filipino workers, and those with emergency or exceptional cases.
Regarding penalties, individuals or entities found confiscating, retaining, or withholding passports without legal authority could face imprisonment for a minimum of 12 years and fines ranging from P1 million to P2 million.
Furthermore, passport forgery carries a 15-year jail term and fines between P100,000 to P250,000.
Offenses related to passport issuances may lead to imprisonment ranging from six to twelve years, coupled with fines ranging from P100,000 to P250,000. Unfair and discriminatory practices concerning passport issuance may result in suspension, dismissal from service, a fine of P250,000, and a six-year imprisonment.
Regular passports are designated for Filipino travelers ineligible for diplomatic or official passports, including government officials traveling for personal reasons. The law also permits government officials, employees, and their families to hold two passports simultaneously during their tenure.
The new law will take effect 15 days after its publication in either the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.