DSWD warns vs fixers, urges early filing of minors’ travel clearance

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Tuesday warned the public against unauthorized individuals or groups offering assistance in the processing of travel clearance for minors traveling abroad (MTA).

Through its Central Processing Office–Minors Traveling Abroad (CPO-MTA), the DSWD reminded parents and guardians to remain vigilant against so-called “fixers” who claim they can facilitate or expedite the processing of travel clearance applications.

“Ang pinakamabilis at pinakamabisang paraan po talaga to secure a travel clearance is to coordinate directly with our CPO-MTA at mag-comply sa mga requirements. 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,” said Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, DSWD spokesperson.

Dumlao stressed that the department does not authorize any third-party agents to process applications on its behalf, warning that transacting with unauthorized individuals could compromise applicants’ personal and sensitive information.

She also underscored the importance of following proper procedures when securing travel clearance for minors, particularly with the summer break approaching.

The DSWD advised parents and guardians 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.

According to Dumlao, the department expects an increase in travel clearance applications during the summer vacation period and reiterated the call for early filing.

“Hinihikayat po natin ang mga magulang at guardians na agahan po ang pag-asikaso ng MTA application para makaiwas po tayo sa delays lalo sa paparating na bakasyon ng mga bata,” she said.

To help fast-track submissions and ensure smoother processing, applicants are encouraged to complete required forms in advance. Standardized templates for MTA requirements may be accessed at tinyurl.com/MTATempForms.

Applications must be submitted through the MTA Online System at https://mta.dswd.gov.ph/ or via the eGov PH mobile application.