New tamper-proof, sexy Philippine e-passport now available

The new sexy

PILIPINAS Pasaporte has just become one of the most powerful passports in the world - VISUALLY powerful that is. Sexy is an understatement. It boasts of tamper-proof high security features using upgraded microchips.

"Most likely," some of those who applied or renewed their passports last month could get the new e-passport, which is set to roll out ten days from now.

From minimal to visual.

The new passport features 44 graphically appealing pages printed with the country's famous landmarks including Vigan, Palawan, San Juanico Bridge, Malacanang, Mt. Pinatubo and Banawe Rice Terraces among others, using microprint UV watermarks (holograms) technology.

Lyrics of Lupang Hinirang, the national anthem, is spread dramatically across the pages.

Alibata, the ancient Filipino alphabet is also featured in the pages.

A fierce Philippine monkey-eating eagle graces the inner front page. Huge flag with  the country's motto, Maka-Diyos, Maka-tao, Maka-Kalikasan, Maka-Bansa (For God, people, nature and country), derived from Panunumpa ng Katapatan sa Watawat ng Pilipinas, is printed at the second cover page.

How many of us still know this by heart?

The cost of getting a new passport or renewal is the same at AED240. Passport validity remains 5 years. Although the much-talked about proposal from no less than President Duterte to extend the validity to 10 years still has to take effect.

In contrary to the pawikan above, new application process promises to be faster.

Another welcome promise is the reduced waiting time for applicants, which is now estimated within 2-3 weeks (from 4-6) because of faster encoding and printing capability of the new technology.  The long and tedious application process is also set to change as the Department of Foreign Affairs is in the works to improve the global appointment system soon.

Because the Filipino is now global, this development is a bold move to remind us about our home traditions, culture and heritage.  Very interesting indeed.

I'm sure you wouldn't want Kish exit stamps to fill your new passport, eh?

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Photos from the specimen released by The Philippine Consulate Office Dubai.