The Philippine ePassport
What is ePassport?
Philippine Electronic Passport (e-passport) - microchip-loaded new passport.
Unlike the Machine Readable Passport (MRP), which is also compliant with the minimum standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the e-passport sports enhanced security features, including hidden encoded image, an ultra-thin holographic laminate and a tamper-proof electronic microchip that is expected to be of big help to Filipino travelers and migrant workers.
The e-passport’s microchip stores the passport holder’s photograph and other personal details for easy verification of identity and is fully inter-operable, meaning that the chip can be read by border officials in other countries using a passport chip reader.
It captures the fingerprints of the passport holder, for identification using the Automated Fingerprint Verification System (AFIS). It has 64-kilobyte microchip where the security features and personal data of the holder are stored, making it difficult for syndicates to commit passport fraud. What are the special features of the Philippine ePassport? The Philippine ePassport allows information stored on the chip to be verified with the information visually displayed on the passport. It uses contactless microchip technology that allows the information stored on the chip to be read by special chip readers at a close distance. It contains an integrated photograph of the holder, a digitized secondary photo, and an electronic print of the holder’s signature. It contains overt and hidden security features such as Invisible Personal Information (IPI), letterscreen, microprinting, and UV reactive ink, among others. Who can avail of the Philippine E-Passport? The ePassport will initially be made available in limited number. Regular issuance will start sometime in October 2009 from whence all applicants who can comply with the documentary requirements may avail of the ePassport. What other countries use ePassports? ePassports are already being used in more than 60 countries worldwide. In ASEAN, five countries have already issued ePassports (Singapore, Brunei, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia). In the future, all countries are seen to switch to the ePassport due to the increasing need for efficient and better border security. How much does an ePassport cost? The ePassport is available for P950. A passport applicant, however, may choose between the ePassport and the less expensive Machine Readable Passport, both compliant with ICAO standard. Where can I apply for an ePassport? The ePassport will be initially available at DFA Manila, to be followed by Philippine Embassies and consulates abroad and throughout the Philippines through DFA’s regional offices. For more details about the new Philippine ePassport please visit DFA site here
The Philippine Electronic Passport (or Philippine ePassport) uses the digital image of the passport photograph that can be used with face recognition technology to verify the identity of the passport holder.
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