Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), through its Minors Travelling Abroad (MTA) program, has issued a warning against unauthorized Facebook pages and groups offering services to expedite the processing of travel clearances.
According to Philippines News Agency, the DSWD MTA clarified that Facebook pages such as Blackbox Travel and Tourism, Flightdeck Junielen Taniola, and Blackboxph Travel Corporation have no affiliation with the DSWD. These pages reportedly offer to streamline processes for flights, visas, tours, including travel clearances. Some related online groups have also amassed up to 2,200 members, raising concerns over the spread of unverified and potentially misleading information.
In a statement Tuesday, DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao strongly condemned the proliferation of these unauthorized platforms. Dumlao emphasized that these FB pages and groups are pretending to be connected with the DSWD program and promise to facilitate the process of availing services, which is not verified and may not conform with MTA policies. She also reminded the public that engaging with 'fixers' is not allowed and may result in complications or invalid applications.
The DSWD highlighted that the MTA has streamlined its processes through its online application system, making it faster, more convenient, and hassle-free for clients. As of April 20, a total of 12,721 applications were approved and issued in 2026, of which 12,685 are for Travel Clearances and 36 are for Certificates of Exemption using the online system. Applicants can now process their travel clearance digitally, provided they submit complete and correct documentary requirements, eliminating the need to go through unauthorized third parties.
To avoid delays, the MTA advises applicants to submit their travel clearance applications at least 30 days before their scheduled flight. For accurate information and assistance, the Department urges the public to coordinate only through the official communication channels of MTA, including Viber, Landline, DSWD WiServ, Mobile Hotline, Hotline, Email, and MTA Call/Chat Support.
