08 January 2017, Israel - In compliance with Republic Act 10928, amending Republic Act 8239 or the Philippine Passport Act of 1996 and Department order No. 10-2017, the Philippine Embassy accepted and processed the initial applications for 10-year Philippine passports on Wednesday,03 January 2018, and Thursday, 04 January 2018.

Ms. Julieta Alcon, 53, from Sarrat, Ilocos Norte, a caregiver based in Tel Aviv for the last 11 years, got the distinction as the first applicant for passport renewal. She expressed happiness in being the first to avail of the service, stating, “It was a blessing; I really waited for 2018 to renew my passport. I’m surprised to know that the fee is still the same and it will benefit me a lot because long validity means more time to focus on work and convenience in renewing my working visa”.

Ms. Alcon was one of 52 applicants who flocked to the Embassy on the first day of the implementation of the 10-year Philippine passports. The Passport Section continues to receive a large number of daily calls inquiring about the 10- year valid passport.

The second day of implementation saw 27 passport applications, garnering a total of 79 applications for the first two days. – END