Manila: The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has announced the adoption of the two-letter document type code 'PP' for regular Philippine ePassports, effective from March 1, 2026. This update will be visible in both the Visual Inspection Zone (VIZ) and the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) of all newly issued regular ePassports.

According to Philippines News Agency, the change aligns with international travel document standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Document 9303. This document requires member states to adopt harmonized secondary document type indicators in passport issuance.

The DFA stated that the adoption of the 'PP' code is intended to strengthen the integrity, security, and global interoperability of Philippine passports. It clarified that regular Philippine ePassports issued before March 1, 2026, which have the single-letter code 'P', will continue to be valid until their expiration dates.

Furthermore, the department assured that this change will not affect travel procedures or requirements for Filipino passport holders.