Filipino children/minors need to secure a travel clearance before leaving the country, whether they are traveling alone or with someone other than their parents. This clearance serves as proof that the minor’s travel is authorized and acknowledged by their parents or legal guardians. You can get this clearance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) office or its regional counterparts.
Traveling can be an enriching experience for young Filipinos, offering them exposure to new cultures, languages, and environments. However, when it comes to children traveling abroad without their parents or legal guardians, safety becomes a primary concern. The Department of Social Welfare and Development in the Philippines ensures the safety and welfare of these young travelers through the Travel Clearance for Minors program.
The travel clearance is valid for 1 year, with multiple purposes allowed for traveling in different countries. However, there are specific requirements to be submitted along with the application form. These requirements vary depending on the purpose of travel and may include a valid passport, birth certificate, authorization letter from parents or legal guardians, and other necessary documents.
The Importance of Safety for Minors Traveling
Traveling opens a world of discovery and learning, especially for young, impressionable minds. Yet, it carries inherent risks, particularly for young ones voyaging without the supervision of their parents or legal guardians. The potential dangers range from the minor’s vulnerability to getting lost or encountering health issues, to more severe threats like exploitation, kidnapping, or becoming victims of trafficking.
In the Philippines, a disturbing statistic from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) revealed that cases of child trafficking have been notably persistent. The 2020 report highlighted that a significant number of these cases involved the illegal transport of children for labor or exploitation. The DSWD has been actively involved in interventions, with their program being a cornerstone in preemptive safety measures.
Benefits of Obtaining a DSWD Travel Clearance for Minors
- The clearance acts as a proactive step against child trafficking and abduction, serving as a legal document that authorizes young ones to journey abroad safely.
- It provides peace of mind to parents, knowing that their child’s trip is recognized and sanctioned by the authorities.
- Moreover, it facilitates smoother immigration processes, as authorities in both the Philippines and destination countries recognize the document.
Eligibility / Qualifications
To be eligible for the DSWD Travel Clearance, a minor must be:
- a Philippine citizen,
- under 18 years old
- traveling abroad alone or with someone other than their parents or legal guardians.
This preventive measure is in line with the Philippines’ commitment to international treaties like the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction.
Requirements
The DSWD has set clear requirements to obtain this document:
- For first-time travelers: This includes a duly accomplished application form, a photocopy of the birth certificate or passport of the minor, a notarized affidavit of consent from parents or legal guardians, and two colored passport-size photos taken in the last six months.
- For minors flying overseas alone subsequently: Along with the standard requirements, a photocopy of the previous clearance document is required.
- For minors traveling with someone other than the parents or legal guardian: The requirements are similar, but also include a photocopy of the passport of the companion going with them on their trip.
Each scenario may have specific additional documents, such as a marriage certificate photocopy or a solo parent identification card, depending on the minor’s family situation.
Step by Step Guide on How to Apply for DSWD Travel Clearance Program
Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the DSWD Travel Clearance:
Step 1: Prepare the Necessary Documents
Collect all the required documents listed in the previous section applicable to your child’s trip scenario.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
Obtain and fill out the application form, which can be downloaded from the DSWD website or picked up at any DSWD office.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Submit the application form along with all the necessary documents to the nearest DSWD regional office. Make sure to keep a photocopy of the complete set for your records.
Step 4: Pay the Processing Fee
As of the latest information, the processing fee is PHP 300 for a one-year validity and PHP 600 for a two-year validity. Payments will be made at the DSWD office.
Step 5: Attend the Interview (if required)
In some cases, there might be an interview process to further verify the minor’s purpose of trip and ensure their safety.
Step 6: Claim the Travel Clearance
After the processing, which usually takes about a week, you can claim the clearance document. Some offices may allow a representative to claim the clearance with proper authorization.
Video: USAPANG MALASAKIT SECOND EPISODE: TRAVEL CLEARANCE FOR MINORS TRAVELLING ABROAD
In the second installment of Usapang Malasakit, the focus shifts to the essential topic of travel clearance for children flying abroad. This episode delves into the intricacies and the necessity of obtaining clearance, providing audiences with valuable insights and guidance on ensuring the safety and security of underage travelers during international trip. Watch as the show unpacks the legalities, requirements, and step-by-step process to help parents and guardians navigate this crucial procedure.
Conclusion
The DSWD Travel Clearance for Minors is a vital document that serves as a safeguard for the young citizens of the Philippines flying abroad without their parents or legal guardians. By following the outlined steps and ensuring that all the required documents are submitted, parents and guardians can rest assured that their children are protected under the law. Remember, while the process may seem meticulous, it is designed to ensure the utmost safety and security of children during their trips.