Manila: The United States Embassy in Manila announced on Wednesday that scheduled passport and visa services will continue "as situation permits" during the ongoing federal government shutdown.
According to Philippines News Agency, the embassy clarified that both domestic and international services at US Embassies and Consulates would persist despite the lapse in appropriations. However, they noted that this continuation is contingent on the evolving situation.
The shutdown has also affected the online presence of the US Embassy, as their social media pages will remain inactive until full operations are resumed. The only exception to this silence will be urgent updates related to safety and security.
The federal government shutdown was triggered when US senators were unable to agree on a short-term appropriations bill before the fiscal year concluded on September 30. The proposed stopgap bill was intended to extend federal funding until November 21.