The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has warned the public against unauthorized individuals or groups offering assistance in the processing of travel clearance (TC) for minors travelling abroad (MTA).
Through its Central Processing Office–Minors Traveling Abroad (CPO-MTA), the Department reminded parents and guardians to remain vigilant and cautious of so-called “fixers” who claim they can facilitate or expedite the processing of MTA clearance.
“Ang pinakamabilis at pinakamabisang paraan po talaga to secure a travel clearance is to coordinate directly with our CPO-MTA at mag-comply sa mga requirements. Pinabilis na po namin ang proseso at magagawa na ito online. Iwasan po natin ang pakikipag-transaksyon sa mga fixers upang maiwasan ang aberya at posibleng pagkaantala ng biyahe,” Asst. Secretary Irene Dumlao, the DSWD spokesperson, said on Tuesday (January 13).
The DSWD spokesperson said the Department does not authorize any third-party agent to process applications on its behalf, as transacting with unauthorized individuals may put the applicants’ personal and sensitive information at risk.
Asst. Secretary Dumlao also stressed the importance of going through the proper process in securing TC for traveling minors.
With the summer break approaching, the DSWD also advised the public to submit applications at least 30 days before the scheduled flight to avoid delays, last-minute processing, and the risk of offloading due to the absence of a DSWD-issued travel clearance or certificate of exemption.
According to Asst. Secretary Dumlao, the Department anticipates an increase in travel clearance applications during the summer vacation period and urged parents and guardians to apply early.
“Hinihikayat po natin ang mga magulang at guardians na agahan po ang pag-asikaso ng MTA application para makaiwas po tayo sa delays lalo sa paparating na bakasyon ng mga bata,” Asst. Secretary Dumlao pointed out.
To help fast-track submissions and ensure smoother processing, applicants are encouraged to complete the required forms in advance.
The standardized templates for MTA requirements may be accessed through the following link: tinyurl.com/MTATempForms.
The TC applications must be sent through the MTA Online System at https://mta.dswd.gov.ph/ or the eGov PH mobile application.
For inquiries and concerns, applicants may contact the CPO-MTA through landline (8951-7440 or 8951-7438), mobile (09171105686 or 09178272543), or via email at [email protected]. (CC)
