The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has launched a new Minors Traveling Abroad (MTA) help desk at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 in preparation for the holiday travel rush.

Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said the help desk is intended to provide immediate assistance to minors and families dealing with urgent travel concerns.

“The facility aims to cater to urgent concerns on the travel clearance applications for minors travelling alone and inquiries regarding minors traveling with companions other than their parents,” Dumlao said.

She added that MTA help desks are also operating at NAIA Terminal 3, Clark International Airport, Mactan-Cebu International Airport, and Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao.

The MTA travel clearance certificate (TCC) is a required document for minors aged 13 and above who are traveling alone or without their parents or legal guardians, in accordance with the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act and the Philippine Passport Act of 1996.

In June, the DSWD announced the digitalization of the MTA travel clearance process as part of efforts to reduce red tape and prevent child trafficking. Under the updated guidelines, the parent or guardian and the minor are required to attend an online verification meeting to confirm information and ensure the child’s safety.

Dumlao urged parents and guardians to apply early to avoid inconvenience at airports.

“We are urging parents and guardians to schedule their application for TCC in advance to avoid offloading incidents or travel delays,” she said.