It’s funny how some things we keep putting off finally happen when someone gives us that little push. In my case, it was my eldest daughter who insisted that I should get my Philippine passport. “Ma, it’s about time,” she said with a smile while helping me fill out the online form last July 2025.
Honestly, I never thought I’d be this excited over a passport, but knowing it’s a key to future travels and possibilities made me look forward to it even more.
Booking My Appointment
With my daughter’s help, we completed the online application at the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) website. The process was easy and convenient—I just had to choose a schedule, upload the necessary details, and pay P950. My appointment was set for September 23, 2025, at 3 PM.
Since I’m the type who likes to come early to avoid the rush, I decided to head to DFA SM City Davao ahead of time for the initial checking of my documents.
As per the instructions on the DFA site, I printed my Appointment Form and Electronic Receipt (both the Applicant and Client copies). I also photocopied all my documents—birth certificate, marriage certificate, and valid IDs—making sure everything was on A4 size paper. (A reminder for those applying: DFA is strict about the paper size!)
My First Visit: September 23, 2025
When I arrived, the guard guided me to Room 2, where I handed in my appointment form. They stamped it and asked me to wait for my turn. The place wasn’t that crowded, so it didn’t take long before I was called to Window 3 for document verification.
Everything seemed smooth until the staff noticed my birth and marriage certificates were NSO-issued. She gently explained that since March 2025, DFA no longer accepts NSO documents and only recognizes those from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
She attached a small note on my form stating that I needed to provide PSA documents within six months, or my ₱950 payment would be forfeited.
That same day, I went online to request for PSA copies of my birth and marriage certificates, which cost ₱325 each, including home delivery.
Receiving My PSA Documents
Fast forward to October 1, 2025, my PSA documents finally arrived! I immediately had them photocopied (again on A4 paper, of course) and prepared for my return to the DFA.
My Second Visit: October 3, 2025
I went back to the DFA office and handed in the same stamped appointment form from my first visit. They stamped it again and directed me to the verification area.
This time, the place was buzzing with people—parents, babies, toddlers—you name it! The crying, laughter, and giggles filled the room, making it feel both chaotic and alive. I couldn’t help but smile; it felt like a family day at the DFA.
When my turn came, the staff reviewed my documents once more, asked a few personal questions, and told me to proceed to Step 4 for my photo and biometrics.
Finally! The moment I’d been waiting for. Sitting in front of the camera, I couldn’t help but think—this is it, I’m finally getting my passport!
A Little Reflection
It took me two visits, a few adjustments, and a lot of patience, but I’m genuinely glad I went through the process. The staff were courteous and accommodating, even with the crowd.
Now, I’m just waiting for my passport to arrive, already dreaming of where it might take me—whether for leisure, work, or simply new experiences waiting beyond the horizon.
If you’re planning to apply soon, here are a few things I learned:
✅ Always check DFA’s updated requirements (they change from time to time).
✅ Only PSA-issued certificates are accepted now.
✅ Photocopy everything on A4 paper.
✅ Go early even if you have a confirmed appointment slot.
A little preparation goes a long way—and in my case, it’s one step closer to new adventures!
!! UPDATE !!
Finally Claiming My Passport
My tentative schedule for claiming my passport was October 21, but I decided to go a day later, on October 22, just to make sure it was already there and ready for release.
So once again, I headed to the DFA office inside SM City Davao—this time feeling more relaxed and excited. I already knew the process, so everything felt familiar.
Upon arrival, I followed the same procedure, but now I lined up in the RELEASING area. The staff instructed us to sit down and wait for our turn to enter. After a few minutes, our group was called inside, and we patiently waited to be called by surname.
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| I regret that I noticed the NO PHOTOGRAPHY. NO VIDEO RECORDING. notice only after taking the photo. My sincere apologies. |
Not long after, I heard my surname being called! I lined up again, went to the counter, and there it was—my Philippine passport, finally in my hands!
It may seem like a small thing to some, but holding that little maroon booklet felt like a big accomplishment. It symbolizes not just identity, but also freedom, opportunity, and the start of new possibilities.
Closing Thoughts
From the day I applied online, to completing my documents, to finally claiming my passport—it’s been a learning experience filled with patience and excitement.
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| BTW, I bought my Passport Plastic Cover for only P50 inside DFA |
The whole process at DFA SM City Davao was smooth and organized, thanks to the staff who were accommodating every step of the way.
And now that I have my passport, who knows where my next adventure will take me? ✈️
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