Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) officially launched its new Minors Traveling Abroad (MTA) help desk at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 on Monday. This initiative aims to provide immediate support for traveling minors requiring urgent assistance.

According to Philippines News Agency, Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao stated that the help desk is now operational to assist families and minor travelers at NAIA Terminal 1. The facility addresses urgent concerns related to travel clearance applications for minors traveling alone and provides information for minors traveling with companions other than their parents.

The opening of the NAIA Terminal 1 help desk is part of the DSWD's efforts to expand its reach in major airports. Other MTA help desks are available at NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay City, Clark International Airport (CIA), Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), and Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao.

The issuance of travel clearance certificates (TCC) for minors traveling abroad alone or without their parents is crucial to safeguard children from potential abuse, exploitation, and trafficking. This requirement is specified under the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act and the Philippine Passport Act of 1996.

Assistant Secretary Dumlao urged parents and guardians to apply for the TCC in advance to prevent any inconvenience on the day of departure. She emphasized the importance of scheduling the application to avoid offloading incidents or travel delays.

In line with the Marcos administration's streamlining and digitalization efforts, the DSWD has enhanced the processing of TCCs through the MTA Online System at. Additionally, the public can apply for TCCs via the eGov PH mobile application, available on digital distribution platforms like Google Play, App Store, and App Gallery.