The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has expanded its airport services with the launch of a new help desk dedicated to minors traveling abroad. The facility opened at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 on Monday, December 22, 2025.
Immediate Support for Families and Young Travelers
According to DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, the Minors Traveling Abroad (MTA) help desk is designed to provide immediate support for urgent situations. The desk will specifically handle concerns related to travel clearance applications for unaccompanied minors and inquiries for minors traveling with companions other than their parents.
"The DSWD’s MTA help desk is now open to assist families and minor travelers at the NAIA Terminal 1," stated Dumlao. This move is part of a broader initiative to place support services in major travel hubs across the country.
Expanding Reach to Major Airports
The new desk at NAIA Terminal 1 joins the network of existing MTA help desks located in other key airports. Travelers can also find these assistance centers at:
- NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay City
- Clark International Airport (CIA)
- Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA)
- Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao
The spokesperson emphasized that the Travel Clearance Certificate (TCC) is a critical requirement. It serves as a protective measure for children traveling alone or without their parents, safeguarding them from potential abuse, exploitation, and trafficking.
A Legal Requirement for Child Protection
The mandate for issuing these certificates is firmly rooted in Philippine law. The requirement is specified under the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act and the Philippine Passport Act of 1996.
To avoid travel disruptions, the DSWD strongly advises the public to apply well before their planned departure. "We are urging parents and guardians to schedule their application for TCC in advance to avoid offloading incidents or travel delays," Dumlao reminded the public.
Streamlined and Digital Application Process
As part of the Marcos administration's push for streamlined and digital government services, the DSWD has made the TCC process faster and more secure. Applicants can now use the MTA Online System at the official website: https://mta.dswd.gov.ph/.
An alternative method is through the eGov PH (e-Government Philippines) mobile application. The app is available for download on popular digital platforms like Google Play, the App Store, and the App Gallery, making the application process accessible from anywhere.
The establishment of this new help desk underscores the government's commitment to child welfare and safe travel, ensuring that necessary safeguards are readily available at the point of departure for Filipino families.
