The law regarding the validity extension was signed last August 2.
To avoid confusion with the new rule, DFA released a video answering all questions.
The new 10-year validity will start next year, January 1, with the same cost.

Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano clarified the issue regarding the new validity of the Philippine Passports. He announced that the new 10-year validity will take place next year, January 1, 2018.

The changes will apply on the first day of the new year. [Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons]

Clarifying All Issues

In the video uploaded by the Department of Foreign Affairs, Cayetano explained that they still need time to inform other countries regarding the new law imposed on the passport’s validity.

He also mentioned that there will be no price increase in the meantime. The new passport will still cost PHP 950, the current price of the ones with 5-year validity.

These details are included in the Department of Foreign Affairs’ Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Republic Act 10928 which was signed yesterday, October 25.

This republic act covers the extension of the Philippine passport’s validity, the same law signed by President Rodrigo Duterte last August 2.

The secretary also mentioned that the next two months, November and December, will give them enough time to inform the whole world and get the appropriate communication out.

“Kung i-approve natin dito na hindi alam ng ibang bansa, baka kuwestyunin pa kayo pagdating sa airport. Imbis na nakatulong, mas malaking problema.”

No Changes For Other Passport Holders

However, the department also clarified that Filipinos who are below 18 years old will still be issued 5-year valid passports.

“Kasi below 18 years old po, nagbabago pa ‘yung mukha, so it’s better that after 18, ‘pag expired na ‘yung passport, saka mo irenew na saka na mag-10 years.”

The Department of Foreign Affairs also said that there will be additional fees to be imposed in the future to enhance the features of the Philippine passports.