DFA Department Order No. 07-17 outlines the guidelines for issuing passports to Filipino Muslim pilgrims participating in the Hajj. It states that all eligible participants must apply for a regular Philippine passport in accordance with the Philippine Passport Act of 1996, providing necessary documentation at any DFA Consular Office with a valid online appointment. Applicants are encouraged to initiate their passport applications at least one year prior to the pilgrimage, and only regular passports will be accepted by Saudi authorities for Hajj processing. The order became effective immediately upon its issuance on May 18, 2017.
May 18, 2017
DFA DEPARTMENT ORDER NO. 07-17
| SUBJECT | : | Guidelines on the Issuance of Passports to Filipino Muslim Pilgrims Participating in the Hajj |
Following are the guidelines on the issuance of passports to Filipino Muslims participating in the annual Hajj pilgrimage:
1. Pursuant to Cabinet Action/Decision File No. 47-082216-02 dated 22 August 2016, subject to the provisions of the Philippine Passport Act of 1996 (RA 8239), a regular Philippine passport shall be issued to all Filipino Muslims participating in the Hajj. Issuance of the regular passport shall be subject to the Department's documentary requirements. DETACa
2. Hajj participants may apply for a regular Philippine passport at any DFA Consular Office provided that they have a valid online appointment. Hajj participants that qualify for the courtesy lanes may avail of them for the same purpose. Hajj participants are encouraged to apply for a regular Philippine passport at least one year before their contemplated pilgrimage.
3. Assuming that the documents submitted are correct and complete, issuance of the regular Philippine passport shall be in accordance with the prescribed schedule. Hajj participants may refer to the DFA website for the full list of documentary requirements.
4. Hajj participants are reminded that only holders of regular Philippine passports will be accepted for Hajj processing by Saudi authorities.
This Department Order shall take effect immediately.
Pasay City, May 18, 2017.
(SGD.) ENRIQUE A. MANALOActing Secretary of Foreign Affairs