E-Passport
In 2009, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) launched the first design of the E-Passport.
After seven years, it is now modified with its latest design set to be launched this week.
DFA spokesperson Asec. Charles Jose says they have started printing the first batch of new E-Passports on Monday, August 15, in cooperation with the APO Production Office.
Various images printed in the latest E-Passport include tourist attractions from Luzon to Mindanao. It also has security features in each page making it very difficult to be forged or falsified.
The new E-Passport has a state-of-the-art invisible ultraviolet fluorescent ink, thread and with attached microchip where the holder’s biometric data is stored.
This is considered as the latest technology and the Philippines is the first to use it as compared with other countries.
“The passport will always be genuine. Those who attempt to get a second passport under a different name will be caught because of the biometrics data,” Asec. Jose said.
The cost of the passport remains at 950 pesos for regular processing and 1,200 pesos for express service which can be claimed after five to seven days.
Asec. Jose clarified that the passpport validity of up to 10 years has not yet taken effect.
The Congress has to amend the Philippine Passport Act of 1996 first before it can be done. — Aiko Miguel / UNTV News & Rescue
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