DSWD warns vs. ‘fixers’ in applying for travel clearance for minors

By Jose Cielito Reganit, Philippine News Agency

The reminder was made through the DSWD’s Central Processing Office – Minors Traveling Abroad (CPO-MTA), which warned parents and guardians against the so-called “fixers” who claim they can facilitate or expedite the processing of MTA clearance. (Photo: PNA)

MANILA – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is reminding the public to remain vigilant against unauthorized individuals or groups offering assistance to process travel clearance (TC) of minors traveling abroad (MTA).

The reminder was made through the DSWD’s Central Processing Office – Minors Traveling Abroad (CPO-MTA), which warned parents and guardians against the so-called “fixers” who claim they can facilitate or expedite the processing of MTA clearance.

“Ang pinakamabilis at pinakamabisang paraan po talaga biyahe (The fastest and most effective way) to secure a travel clearance is to coordinate directly with our CPO-MTA and comply with the requirements,” Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said in a statement on Tuesday.

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.

She also stressed the importance of going through the proper process in securing TC for traveling minors.

“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 (We have expedited the process and it can be done online. Refrain from transacting with fixers to prevent snags and possible flight delays),” Dumlao said.

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.

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 grievance_cpomta@dswd.gov.ph.