The Philippine government on Tuesday advised Filipino Muslims to directly contact the Department of Foreign Affairs for passport processing in preparation for their pilgrimage to Mecca.
“The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reminds the public to be extra vigilant against claims from any organization or individual to facilitate passport processing in time for Hajj,” the DFA said in a statement.
It explained that Saudi authorities will only assist Philippine passport holders for Hajj processing.
“Hajj participants may apply for regular passport at any DFA consular office after securing a valid online appointment and completion of documentary requirements. They may also avail of courtesy lane facility if they qualify,” DFA said.
The agency reminded Hajj participants to apply for regular passport at least a year before their scheduled pilgrimage “to ensure that the travel document is ready and on hand at the time of travel.”
“The Department also takes this opportunity to inform the public that it will not hesitate to take the necessary lawful action against organizations or individuals violating the provisions of the Philippine Passport Act,” it said.
“Time and again, the DFA has taken swift administrative investigations on the heels of passport violations in the past and is more determined to ensure that those responsible shall be held accountable for their ill actions,” DFA said.
In the past, authorities have apprehended foreigners posing as Philippine passport holders. It was revealed that the foreigners paid syndicates to allow them to use the Hajj quota reserved by the Saudi government for Filipino pilgrims. JE/rga
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