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MANILA, Philippines -- Filipinos who plan to attend the World Youth Day 2008 scheduled from July 15 to 20 in Sydney, Australia are encouraged to apply for their application fee-free visas, Australian officials said Friday.
The call was made by both Senator Chris Evans, Australian Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, and Christian Jones, of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship-Australian embassy Manila.
“People must understand that the department cannot guarantee that applications lodged after June 1 will be processed in time for pilgrims to travel to Australia in July,” Evans said in a statement.
In a briefing for would-be Filipino pilgrims, Jones advised that they register at the World Youth Day 2008 website and to get details of the requirements for visa applications at the Australian embassy in Manila website.
While visa processing will not be eased, Jones said those who would attend the global gathering would not pay the usual P3,200 fee.
Australian Ambassador-Designate Rod Smith noted that an estimated 500,000 people from some 170 countries around the world would be expected to attend the international event.
Some 5,000 pilgrims from the Philippines are expected to attend the event that will include the first visit to Australia of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI.
“These numbers are a good indication of the commitment of the youth not just to pursuing their faith but to engaging with their fellow youth from around the world,” Smith said.
However, Jones said that of the 300 visa applications from Filipino pilgrims his office has so far received, 125 have been granted. That’s why he repeated Evans’ call for an early visa application for those who would wish to attend the World Youth Day.
The ambassador-designate also encouraged the would-be World Youth Day participants to take advantage of being in Australia to learn about the country, its society and its people.
“Upon your return, we look forward to learning from you on how to promote progress in areas of mutual concern, whether it be a youth peace-building project, promoting the heritage of your indigenous peoples, or even raising awareness on climate change,” Smith said.
