Whether or not you fly out the country on a regular basis, the Department of Foreign Affairs has released a public advisory saying that passports should be renewed one year prior to expiration.
In a Facebook post, the DFA notes that the extension of the validity of ePassports, which were released in 2016 due to delays in processing of actual passports, will not be allowed "in compliance with the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)."
The department also encourages people to be proactive with maintaining the validity of their passports. As of writing, there are still slots open for applications and renewals until December 2019. To schedule an appointment, head on to http://passport.gov.ph/appointment. Once you've secured your slot, the DFA website lists the following requirements that you should bring on the day itself:
1. Confirmed online appointment;
2.Accomplished application form;
3. Current passport with photocopy of data page;
4. Original PSA (NSO) authenticated documents that support change of name;
5. Any of the following valid IDs with one photocopy:
- Social Security System (SSS) Card
- Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Card
- Unified Multi-Purpose Identification (UMID) Card
- Land Transportation Office (LTO) Driver’s License. Student Permit may be accepted if in card format.
- Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) ID
- Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) E-Card
- Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Voter's ID or Voter's Certification from the Election Officer with Dry Seal
- Philippine National Police (PNP) Permit to Carry Firearms Outside Residence
- Senior Citizen ID
- Airman License (issued August 2016 onwards)
- Philippine Postal ID (issued November 2016 onwards)
- For passport renewal, you valid or latest passport
For more details, visit http://dfa.gov.ph.
