This section covers miscellaneous topics with regard to procedures of other government agencies. For consular procedures on Passports, Visas to the Philippines, Legalization of Documents, Reports of Birth, Marriage, Death and Dual citizenship, refer to the topics below:

GET A COPY OF MY AMENDED/CORRECTED INFORMATION ON MY BIRTH CERTIFICATE/MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE, FOLLOWING A COURT DECREE/LEGAL INSTRUMENT (CDLIS)?

Republic Act (RA) 9048 authorizes the City or Municipal Civil Registrar or the Consul General to correct a clerical or typographical error in an entry and/or change the first name or nickname in the civil register without need of a judicial order.

RA 9048 amends Articles 376 and 412 of the Civil Code of the Philippines, which prohibit the change of name or surname of a person, or any correction or change of entry in a civil register without a judicial order.

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo approved the act on 22 March 2001. With the law taking effect on 22 April 2001, the Civil Registrar-General promulgated Administrative Order No. 1 Series of 2001, which was published in the newspaper in Augus that year.

The final step for those whose Civil Records that have undergone the process prescribed by RA 9048 may secure copies of their amended records from the National Statistics Office.

Currently, e-Census (online service of the National Statistics Office) is not able to accept requests for civil registry documents that have undergone correction and/or changes in entries through legal means allowed by Philippine laws. Documents that fall under this category of court decrees and legal instruments (CDLIs) include, but are not limited to:

• Supplemental reports;
• Legitimation;
• Adoption;
• Presumptive death;
• Annulment of Marriage; and
• Civil Registry of records whose entries have been corrected and/or changed through RA 9048 (Clerical Error Law); and RA 9225 (An Act Allowing Illegitimate Children to Use the Surname of the Father)

For cases under this category, the submission of copies of supporting documents is required. To apply for a copy of your corrected document, you must forward your request directly to the NSO. Submit your intention to apply for a copy of your corrected/annotated birth certificate to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Please be advised that you will be required to submit additional documents pertinent to your request, when requesting these documents for the first time. For succeeding requests for a copy, indicate in your request that the document you are getting is affected by supplemental report, court decree or legal instruments, or that it underwent changes/corrections provided for under RA 9048 or RA 9255. If you are applying via the e-Census website, please e-mail the NSO directly at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

CHANGE/CORRECT INFORMATION ON MY BIRTH CERTIFICATE/MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE, FOLLOWING A COURT DECREE/LEGAL INSTRUMENT (CDLIS)?

Currently, e-Census (online service of the National Statistics Office) is not able to accept requests for civil registry documents that have undergone correction and/or changes in entries through legal means allowed by Philippine laws. Documents that fall under this category of court decrees and legal instruments (CDLIs) include, but are not limited to:

• Supplemental reports;
• Legitimation;
• Adoption;
• Presumptive death;
• Annulment of Marriage; and
• Civil Registry records whose entries have been corrected and/or changed through RA 9048 (Clerical Error Law); and RA 9255 (An Act Allowing Illegitimate Children to Use the Surname of the Father).

For cases under this category, the submission of copies of supporting documents is required. To apply for a copy of your corrected document, you must forward your request directly to the NSO. Submit your intention to apply for a copy of your corrected/annotated birth certificate to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Please be advised that you will be required to submit additional documents pertinent to your request, when requesting these documents for the first time. For succeeding requests for a copy, indicate in your request that the document you are getting is affected by supplemental report, court decree or legal instrument, or that it underwent changes/corrctions provider for under RA9048 or RA9255.  If you are applying via the e-Census website, please email the NSO directly at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

CHANGE/CORRECT INFORMATION ON MY BIRTH CERTIFICATE, WHERE IT APPEARS THAT MY FIRST NAME IS BLANK?

Republic Act (RA) 9048 authorizes the City or Municipal Civil Registrar or the Consul General to correct a clerical or typographical error in an entry and/or change the first name or nickname in the civil register without need of a judicial order.

RA 9048 amends Articles 376 and 412 of the Civil Code of the Philippines, which prohibit the change of name or surname of a person, or any correction or change of entry in a civil register without a judicial order.

In order to supply the missing entry in your birth record, you have to file an application for a Supplemental Report at the Local Civil Registry Office (LCRO), where your birth was registered.

You must bring supporting documents, e.g., baptismal certificate, school records, etc., as these may be required in filing the application. The LCRO will then submit a copy of the Supplemental Report to NSO, along with the civil registry documents they regularly transmit to the agency.

This procedure also applies for birth records with "Baby Boy" or "Baby Girl" written as the first name for births that occurred until 1992. For the years thereafter, 1993 to the current year, correction must be done through RA 9048 (Clerical Error Law).

For those born elsewhere outside the jursidiction of the Philippine Embassy Prague, please refer to the appropriate office or Local Civil Registrar Office (LCRO).

You may also contact the NSO directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

CHANGE/CORRECT THE SPELLING OF MY NAME OR THE DATE OF BIRTH ON MY PHILIPPINE COLLEGE SCHOLASTIC RECORDS?

For schools under the auspices of the Philippine Commission on Higher Education (CHED), corrections on the transcript as far as spelling of the name and the place of birth can be made through the CHED. The list of requirements is as follows:

1.    Letter-Request addressed to: The Regional Director, Commission on Higher Education, Region _____, Address

2.    Certified TRUE Copy of Certificate of Live Birth

3.    Notarized Original Copy and Photocopy of (NOTE: Affidavits EXPIRE Six (6) Months after) :

a.    Personal Affidavit, and

b.    Joint Affidavit of Two (2) Disinterested Persons (i.e. Hindi Kamag-anak)

4.    Photocopy of Marriage Contract (Married Women ONLY)

5.    Endorsement Letter from College Registrar (Incoming College Freshman ONLY)

6.    Photocopy of Transcript of Records and/or Diploma (if Available)

7.    Photocopy of any VALID ID CARD with Picture (i.e. Passport, PRC License, Office ID, School ID, etc.)

Processing fee P 40.00 (Payment Upon Release) or POSTAL MONEY ORDER of P 40.00 and Self Addressed Stamped Envelope if Processing is to be by POSTAL MAIL.

Processing Period 7 Working Days
For further information, contact:
Legal Affairs Service
Phone: 6373570 or 6367637
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

NOTE: Some universities, such as the University of the Philippines, have their own charter and are not under the auspices of the CHED. In such cases, contact the Registrar’s Office of your university for proper guidance.

CLAIM GOVERNMENT SERVICE INSURANCE SYSTEM (GSIS) PENSION/BENEFITS?

1. To ENROLL - According to the GSIS, pensioners living abroad may enroll for the eCard Plus system via video call through Skype. According to the GSIS, pensioners living abroad may enroll for the eCard Plus system via video call through Skype.
   
   Applicants need to access www.skype.com to get a Skype account under their name. After having done this, applicants are asked to email the GSIS at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. providing the full name and Skype account user name and other required information, so that the GSIS can schedule the video call for the eCard Plus enrollment. On the scheduled appointment, a GSIS representative will call the applicant through the Skype account, and guide the applicants on the steps for enrolling for the eCard and GWAPS.

NOTE: The GSIS computerized enrollment kiosk installed by the GSIS in the Philippine Consulate General New York in 2007 was REMOVED BY THE GSIS IN 2008. Pensioners no longer need to come to the Consulate to personally enroll with the GSIS system, as they can do so on their own, through the procedure described above. For more information contact the GSIS through This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

2. To RENEW your ACTIVE STATUS as a GSIS pensioner, you can call the GWAPS hotline from abroad using (632) 976-08660 or (632) 884-7400 (international toll rates apply).
   • The Voice prompt will ask you to dial your 11-digit GSIS ID card (contained on your ecard Plus) followed by the pound key (#)
   • For access to GV@PS%20press">GW@PS press 1
   • To proceed with GW@PS press 1
   • You will then be given the options for the type of GSIS service you will need. Press “3” for Annual Renewal of Active Status.
   • The voice prompt then asks you to SAY the numbers “0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,…” then press the pound (#) sign again
   • To further confirm your identity, the voice prompt will ask you to state a four-digit number. Say these numbers then press the pound (#) sign.
   • Wait for the voice prompt confirming the successful renewal of your active status as a pensioner.
   • This will complete the once-a-year status confirmation, to be done on your birth month, that will allow you to receive your monthly GSIS pension

Information provided by the GSIS on their website and fliers.

APPLY FOR AN NBI CLEARANCE FROM ABROAD? (FROM HTTP://WWW.NBI.GOV.PH)

For those living / working abroad – First-time applicant for NBI clearance - Secure a Fingerprint Card Form from the nearest Philippine Foreign Service Post

1. Fill-up the personal data called for on both sides of the card truthfully and legibly.
2. In case you are a married woman, the order of writing your name is as follows:Attach a latest copy of your 2”x2” photograph with white background (taken within three (3) months prior to your application).
   1. Your maiden surname (father’s surname).
   2. Your husband’s surname.
   3. Your first name or given name.
   4. Your maternal surname (family name of your mother)
4. Proceed to the police agency in your locality to have your fingerprints impressed (ROLLED IMPRESSION) on the appropriate spaces. The officer/person who “fingerprinted” you should sign his name and state his official designation on the space provided for the purpose on the card.
5. Have the Fingerprint Card Form authenticated by the Philippine Consulate General/Embassy so that the document can be considered legal for use in the Philippines (fee $25.00). Once authenticated by the Philippine Consulate, the application is considered “accomplished”.
6. SENDING your accomplished form to the NBI by two means:

1. By Mail- Enclose Money Order in the sum of Php 200.00 Philippine currency or bank draft which is negotiable in the Philippines payable to the Director, National Bureau of Investigation, Taft Avenue, Ermita 1000 Manila, Philippines. The following accredited banks are:
   • Philippine National Bank (PNB)
   • Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank Co. (HSBC)
   • ANZ – A New Zealand Bank
   • METROBANK
   • Bank of Philippine Islands (BPI)

Upon completion of this requirement, send your accomplished form to:

Ms. Julie Macalit
IRD - Mailed Clearance Section
National Bureau of Investigation
Taft Ave., Ermita 1000 Manila
Philippines

The NBI will mail you the corresponding clearance certificate after it has been processed (a maximum of three (3) days excluding days of transit).

2. Through a Representative in the Philippines – send the accomplished form to your representative, along with a signed Letter Authorizing him/her to transact business on your behalf. Your relative may visit the office of the Electronic Data Processing Division (EDPD) in NBI Taft Avenue, Manila for further assistance.

7. Receiving your Clearance Certificate - Upon receipt of your clearance certificate, please examine it for the presence of the embossed NBI DRY SEAL at its lower left portion, the clearance is invalid without it. You must also affix your clear and properly taken THUMBPRINT on the space provided for on the clearance certificate with the assistance of any local police in your area before submitting it to the end-user.

For those living / working abroad – Applicant Renewing NBI clearance
- If you have your original Personal Copy of your NBI clearance issued from 1998 onwards, simply send that certificate to the NBI office for renewal, along with: 

1. 2”x2” photograph with white background (taken within three (3) months prior to your application)
2. Photocopy of your passport with date stamped proving your presence abroad
3. Update any information that needs to be updated on your old clearance certificate, else write Same Data if there are no changes. Renewal only allows changes in address and purpose of clearance.
4. If there would be changes in your NAME, DATE OF BIRTH and PLACE OF BIRTH, you are advised to fill-up the form for new applicants and attach a photocopy of your Birth Certificate or Marriage Certificate as proof on changes applied.
5. Follow the same SENDING instructions as above.

If your clearance was issued prior to 1998 or you have lost your personal copy of the certificate, follow the instructions for First Time applicants from abroad.

RENEW MY PHILIPPINE DRIVERS LICENSE FROM ABROAD?

In accordance with Land Transportation Office (LTO) Administrative Order No. RIB-2008-011 Series of 2007, it is now possible for Filipinos abroad who hold authentic Philippine license who are staying abroad to renew their expired Philippine drivers’ license through a representative.

The following documents must be presented by the authorized representative of the applicant: 

1. Original driver’s license and receipt (plus one photocopy of each);
2. Photocopy of the Philippine passport (first page, visa page and departure from the Philippines and last arrival overseas);
3. Signed Letter from the licensee to the LTO requesting the renewal, and authorizing a representative to renew the license on his / her behalf

Applicants within the National Capital Region (NCR) or Metro Manila may apply for renewal at the License Section of the Central Office of the LTO in Quezon City.

Representatives who are outside of NCR may apply at the field office of their choice.

NOTE: only an OFFICIAL RECEIPT will be issued by the LTO to those who apply for extensions on their driver’s license through a representative. A new ID-card can only be issued upon the arrival of the applicant at the LTO in the Philippines and compliance with all requirements for license renewal, including the biometrics capture, medical, vision and drug test.

HOW DO I IMPORT A MOTOR VEHICLE INTO THE PHILIPPINES?

Can anyone bring in a motor vehicle?

Yes, provided that the motor vehicle is brand-new. Under Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Circular 92, Series of 1995, dated October 19, 1995, the importation of a brand new motor vehicle of all types, including motorcycles has been liberalized and would no longer thus require prior authority to import.

When is a motor vehicle brand new?

Under the guidelines presently awaiting approved by the office of the President, a motor vehicle is brand new if and only if the following criteria are satisfied: a) That the motor vehicle is of current or advance year model; b) It has never been registered or used; and c) It is covered by a certificate of first ownership.

How about motor vehicles not of current or advance year model?

They shall be processed as in used motor vehicle.

What about used vehicles?

Only qualified individuals may bring in a used motor vehicle which shall be duly covered by a prior authority to import. Under Appendix 1-D of BSP Circular-Letter, Series 1995, dated October 19, 1995, the importation of used motor vehicles continue to be regulated and would therefore require prior authority from the Bureau of Import Services (BIS), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Who is qualified to import used motor vehicles?

Under Executive Order No. 248 as Implemented by BIS, in relation to BSP Circular-Letter, Series of 1995, dated October 19, 1995, the following individuals may be allowed to bring in used motor vehicles: 1. A returning Filipino or a former Filipino citizen who has stayed abroad for more than a year; 2. An immigrant to the Philippines (shall be at least a holder of a 13G Visa duly issued by the Bureau of Immigration and Deportation). Provided further that: 1. Only one (1) unit motor vehicle per family is allowed to be brought in. (A motorcycle is considered a motor vehicle for this purpose). 2. The vehicle is registered in his name for at least six (6) months prior to shipment to the Philippines; 3. Proof can be presented that the vehicle was acquired out of the earnings abroad.

Is the personal presence of the car owner necessary?

Yes, personal presence by the car owner of the used motor vehicle is required.

Is there any other restriction on the motor vehicle that may be brought in?
Yes, whether brand-new or not, the motor vehicle should be left-hand drive.

Are the imported vehicles subject to taxes and duties?

Yes. Whether brand-new or used, purchased or donated, the imported vehicle is subject to 40% Customs duty, 10% VAT and Ad Valorem Tax from 15% to 100% depending on its piston displacement. Its book value serves as the tax and not the purchase price nor the acquisition cost. The book value is sourced from universally accepted motor vehicle reference books such as the Red Book, Blue Book, World Book depending on the origin of the imported vehicle.

Are spare parts sent with the motor vehicle also taxable?

Yes. These are taxed separately.

How can we inquire the taxes and duties payable?

By writing and providing information about the vehicle as to the make, brand, year model, piston displacement, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or chassis number or sending a copy of the registration to:

Valuation Center and Library
Bureau of Customs
South Harbor, Manila

or

One Stop Processing Center for Motor Vehicle
Manila International Container Port
North Harbor, Manila

Are there other charges aside from taxes and duties?

Yes. There are other non-customs charges that may be due on the shipment such as: storage and arrastre fees which may be collected by the privately-owned arrastre operator; demurrage by the shipping line and wharf-age dues by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).

How important is the Prior Import Authority (PIA)?

It is very important if the vehicle would not qualify as brand-new as herein defined. A used motor vehicle not covered by PIA shall be seized and may only be released upon payment of the heavy penalties on top of the taxes and duties due thereon.

How is PIA obtained?

By submitting to BIS a duly accomplished application form which may be obtained from it and the following documents duly authenticated by the nearest Philippine Consulate abroad where the car owner resides;

1. Proof of his continuous stay abroad for at least one (1) year;

2. Copy of the registration papers showing that the vehicles are registered in his name for at least six (6) months;

3. Proof that the car was acquired out of the earnings abroad.

Where is the BIS located?

Bureau of Import Service
3rd Floor, Welding Industries of the Philippines Bldg.
349 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue
Makati City, Metro Manila
Tel. No. 895-7466

Is depreciation in value accorded to imported vehicle?

Yes, if the imported motor vehicle is an older model or an earlier than the current year model. The depreciation schedule is 10% per year counted downwards from the current year which has a depreciation rate of zero percent (0%). Motor vehicles with a piston displacement of 2000 cc and above may be given a maximum depreciation of 50%, while those below 2000 cc, up to the maximum of 70%.

Is the importation of motor vehicle subject to pre-shipment inspection (PSI/) by SGS in the country of exportation?

Under Joint Order 1-91, individual owned motor vehicle is not subject to pre-shipment inspection by SGS. The importation thereof need not be covered by a Clean Report of Findings (CRF) issued by SGS. Non individually- owned vehicle or those imported for commercial purpose should therefore undergo PSI and their importation should be covered by CRF.

How long does it take to clear motor vehicle importations from customs?
Given a complete documentation, clearance for the release of the imported vehicle in the One Stop Shop Processing Center (OSPC) takes place within forty-eight (48) hours from the filing of Customs entry.

Are importations of boats, yachts and motorized farm implement allowed?
Yes, subject to the payment of taxes and duties.

HOW DO I IMPORT PERSONAL EFFECTS TO THE PHILIPPINES?

Under Section 105 of the Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines as amended by Executive Order No. 206, duty and tax free privileges, for goods that are not to be sold, bartered nor traded; not of commercial quantity; not prohibited importations and have been endorsed by the proper regulatory agency and the Bureau of Customs, can be extended to individuals based on their status, specifically:

Returning Resident Filipino nationals (or have re-acquired citizenship), who have had an uninterrupted stay abroad for at least six (6) months prior to their return to the Philippines, are entitled to duty and tax free privileges for personal effects and household goods, used abroad for at least six (6) months, of a dutiable value not more than Ten Thousand Pesos (10,000.00). Any amount in excess of P10,000.00 is subject to 50% duty to the first P10,000.00 exemption across the board.

Filipino nationals who have acquired foreign citizenship and are returning using a 13-g Immigrant Visa to settle permanently in the Philippines, who have stayed abroad for at least six months, is entitled to duty and tax exemption privileges (a maximum of P 10,000.00) for professional instruments and implements, tools of trade occupation or employment, wearing apparel, domestic animals, and personal household effects shall be exempt, provided that the change of residence was bonafide, the privilege of free entry was never availed of before and that the articles are brought from their former place of abode.

Please be advised that importation / shipping of goods are subjected to ad valorem taxes, port services and other additional costs that will be assessed only upon arrival in the Philippines.

For modes of importation and documentary requirements of the Bureau of Customs, please refer to http://www.customs.gov.ph, www.dof.gov.ph, or e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

IMPORT LIVE PET ANIMALS AND HOUSEHOLD PLANTS INTO THE PHILIPPINES?

Are there restrictions or conditions to the entry of pets/animals and household plant?
Yes, there are quarantine and regulatory agency restrictions and conditions to the importations of pets/animals and household plants.

Are there requirements prior to shipment of household plants?

Yes, Phytosanitary Certificate must be obtained from the concerned Government Agency at the port of origin and presented to the Plant Quarantine Officer. Plants arriving in the country without this certificate as well as those falling in the alert list may be detained.

How about the commercial shipment of animals, plants and their products or by-products?

For the pertinent rules and regulations on commercial shipment of animals, plants and their products/ by-products, write to:

Bureau of Animal Industry
Visayas Avenue
Diliman, Quezon City
or

The Director
Bureau of Plant Industry
692 San Andres, Malate, Manila.

What is the veterinary quarantine requirement prior to the shipment of pet animals?
A health certificate must be obtained from the concerned government agency at the port of origin. The certificate will be required by the Veterinary Quarantine Officer at the airport/port of disembarkation. Any pet without such a certificate will be detained by Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) until cleared. For pet fishes, in lieu of a health certificate, a prior import permit must be obtained from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).

For importing Dogs and Cats

• Apply for an import permit with the Animal Health Division (AHD), Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) by writing a letter addressed to the BAI Director containing the following information:

o Species and breed of animal

o Sex, color and number of pets

o Expected date of arrival

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*Always inquire from the Bureau of Animal Industry for new rates on inspection fees and new procedures

• If the number of animals to be brought to the Philippines exceeds five, the animals have to be inspected at the quarantine site

• Issuance and inspection fees are P50.00 pesos and P165.00 pesos for the first two heads and P220.00 pesos for each succeeding head, respectively. Payment may be made upon arrival at the Veterinary Quarantine Unit, Ninoy Aquino International Airport

• A valid health certificate from the country of origin must be presented upon arrival

The permit is good for 2 months. Extension for another month may be requested before the Permit's expiry date.

For Exotic Animals

• Apply for an import permit with the Animal Health Division (AHD), Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) by writing a letter addressed to the BAI Director containing the following information:

o Species and breed of animal
o Sex, color and number of pets
o Expected date of arrival

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*Always inquire from the Bureau of Animal Industry for new rates on inspection fees and new procedures

 • Arrange Schedule with AHD for inspection of the quarantine site
• A CITES Certification issued by the Parks and Wildlife Bureau shall be presented
• Issuance and inspection fees are P40.00 pesos and P10.00-50 pesos per head (depending on the size of the animal), respectively

• A valid health certificate from the country of origin shall be presented upon arrival

The permit is good for 2 months. Extension for another month may be requested before the Permit's expiry date.

Note: Always inquire from Bureau of Animal Industry for new rates on Inspection Fees.

BRING IN MEDICINES TO THE PHILIPPINES? ARE THERE ITEMS THAT ARE CONSIDERED RESTRICTED OR PROHIBITED FROM IMPORTATION? WHAT ARE THESE AND WILL MY MEDICATION BE SUBJECT TO SEARCH/SEIZURE?

Prohibited Importations

These are items generally prohibited, except when given permission under highly controlled conditions as provided for in the law. Some of these prohibited items are the following: 

• Dynamite, gunpowder, ammunitions and other explosives, firearms and weapon of war, and parts thereof
• Written or printed articles, negatives or cinematographic film, photographs, engravings, lithographs, objects, paintings, drawings or other representations of an obscene or immoral character
• Articles, instruments drugs, and substances designed, intended or adapted for producing unlawful abortion, or any printed matter which advertises or describes or gives directly or indirectly information where, how and by whom unlawful abortion is produced
• Roulette wheels, gambling outfits, loaded dice, marked cards, machines, apparatus or mechanical devices used in gambling or the distribution of money, cigars, cigarettes or other articles when such distribution is dependent on chance, including jackpot and pinball machines or similar contrivances, or parts thereof
• Lottery and sweepstakes tickets except those authorized by the Philippine government, advertisements thereof, and list of drawings therein
• Any article manufactured in whole or in part of gold, silver, or other precious metal or alloys thereof, the stamps, brands or marks of which do not indicate the actual fineness of quality of said metals or alloys
• Any adulterated or misbranded articles of food or any adulterated or misbranded drugs in violation of the provision of the "Food and Drug Act"
• Marijuana, opium, poppies, coca leaves, heroin or any other narcotics or synthetic drugs which are or may hereafter be declared habit forming by the President of the Philippines, or any compound, manufactured salt, derivative, or preparation thereof, except when imported by the government of the Philippines or any person duly authorized by the Dangerous Drugs Board for medicinal purposes only
• Opium pipes and parts thereof, of whatever material
• Used clothing and rags (RA 4653)
• Toy guns (LOI 1264 dated July 21, 1982)

Regulated/Restricted Commodities

As defined under Central Bank Circular No. 1389, series of 1993, as amended, regulated or restricted commodities are generally allowable importations but clearance/permits must be obtained from appropriate government agencies before they can be imported. Some of these commodities and their corresponding Regulatory Agency are as follows:

COMMODITY DESCRIPTION/COMMODITY GROUP (PSCC CODE)	REGULATORY AGENCY ISSUING PERMIT/CLEARANCE
Acetic anhydride (513.77-01)	Dangerous Drug Board (DDB)
Rice	National Food Authority
Sodium Cyanide (523.81-01)	Environmental Management Bureau
Chlorofluorocarbon and other Ozone Depleting Substances (511.36-03/04.511.37-00/511.38-01/511.38-09)	Environmental Management Bureau
Penicillin/derivatives (541.31-00/542.13.01/542.13-09)	BFAD
Refined petroleum products (Appendix 1-A)	Energy Regulatory Board
Coal and Coal derivatives (321.10-00/321.21-00/ 321.22-00/322.10-00)	Energy Regulatory Board
Color Reproduction Machines NBI and Cash Department (Subgroup 751.3)	Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)
Various Chemicals for the manufacture of explosives (Appendix 1-B)	PNP Firearms and Explosives Office (PNP-FEO)
Onions, garlic, potatoes and cabbage, for seedlings purposes	Bureau of Plant Industry
Pesticides incl. Agricultural Chemicals (Appendix 1-C)	Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority
Motor Vehicles, Parts and Components (Appendix 1-D)	DTI/BOI/BIS
Truck and automobile tires and tubes, used, of all sizes (LOI, 1086-Nov. 25, 1980)	DTI
No-dollar imports of used motor vehicles	DTI
All commodities originating from Socialist and other centrally planned economy countries	PITC
Warships of all kinds	MARINA
Radioactive Materials	PNRI
Legal tender Philippine currency in excess of PHP5,000	Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)
Others (Appendix 1-B)	Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)
Agricultural Products produced locally in sufficient quantity (Appendix 1-F)	Department of Agriculture thru the National Food Authority

HOW DO I TRANSPORT HUMAN REMAINS TO THE PHILIPPINES?

To transport human remains to the Philippines in a coffin or an urn, one must present the following:

Requirements for Issuance of Consular Mortuary Certificate for Shipment of Coffin bearing Human Remains 

• Death Certificate - one (1) original and three (3) photocopies
• Burial Transit Permit - one (1) original and three (3) photocopies (usually a 4” X 8” card or paper permit for transport of human remains)
• Notarized Embalmer’s Certificate - one (1) original and three (3) photocopies (stating that the body was duly embalmed and is in sanitary condition for shipment abroad)
• Notarized Mortuary Certificate - one (1) original and three (3) photocopies (stating that the casket contains only the body of the deceased and how the body will be shipped)
• Notarized Health Department Certificate - one (1) original and three (3) photocopies (stating that the deceased did not die of contagious disease)
• Four (4) copies of flight itinerary and consignee information

• flight schedule;
• consignee’s address and phone number in the Philippines
• family member or contact person’s address in the U.S. and in the Philippines (indicate relationship to the deceased)
• last known address of the deceased in the Philippines

• Proof of Citizenship - Philippine passport for Filipino citizens (or former Filipino citizen, U.S. passport or naturalization papers for other nationalities, passport)
• Processing fee of $50.00 - $25.00 for Mortuary Certificate and $25.00 for Report of Death in cash, company check, money order or cashier’s check payable to the Philippine Consulate General
• Self-addressed stamped envelope (US Postal Service – we recommend priority mail with delivery confirmation or express mail). Those who wish express, overnight delivery should use a courier service (FEDEX, UPS, DHL. etc.)

NOTE: Above documents should be received by the Consulate at least three (3) working days before departure. Funeral Directors should contact the Philippine Consulate General at (212) 764-1330 ext. 321

REQUIREMENTS FOR ISSUANCE OF CONSULAR MORTUARY CERTIFICATE FOR SHIPMENT OF URNS

• Death Certificate- one (1) original and two (2) photocopies
• Burial Transit Permit- one (1) original and three (3) photocopies (usually a 4” X 8” card or paper permit for transport of cremated remains)
• Cremation Certificate - one (1) original and two (2) photocopies
• Notarized Mortuary Certificate - one (1) original and two (2) photocopies (stating that the urn contains only the cremated remains)
• Three (3) copies of flight itinerary and consignee information - flight schedule Proof of Citizenship - Philippine passport for Filipino citizens (or former Filipino citizen, U.S. passport or naturalization papers for other nationalities, passport)
  • flight schedule;
  • consignee’s address and phone number in the Philippines
  • family member or contact person’s address in the U.S. and in the Philippines (indicate relationship to the deceased)
  • last known address of the deceased in the Philippines
• Processing fee of $50.00 - $25.00 for Mortuary Certificate and $25.00 for Report of Death in cash, company check, money order or cashier’s check payable to the Philippine Consulate General
• Self-addressed stamped envelope (US Postal Service – we recommend priority mail with delivery confirmation or express mail). Those who wish express, overnight delivery should use a courier service (FEDEX, UPS, DHL. etc.)

NOTE: Above documents should be received by the Consulate at least three (3) working days before departure. Funeral Directors should contact the Philippine Consulate General at (212) 764-1330 ext. 321

CONDUCT A MEDICAL MISSION IN THE PHILIPPINES?

Foreign Medical Missions: Specific Guidelines

Note: As part of its regular LINKAPIL Program, the Commission on Filipinos Overseas is prepared to assist in facilitating/expediting the requirements for all foreign medical missions who wish to practice in the Philippines. The CFO may be contacted at Citigold Center, 1345 President Quirino Avenue, corner South Superhighway, Manila, Philippines 1007, telephone number (632) 561-8327, fax number (632) 561-8332 or through e-mail address: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The following regulations are applicable to Filipino and foreign non-government organizations and overseas medical groups intending to provide health care services in underserved areas in the Philippines, where professional services, ancillary procedures, surgical interventions, and medicines are given at no cost to the patient (DOH Administrative Order No. 179, s. 2001): 

• Sponsors of foreign medical and surgical missions must obtain clearance from the Office of the Secretary of Health, through the Bureau of International Health Cooperation (BIHC), prior to the implementation of the medical and surgical mission.
• For monitoring purpose, BIHC will notify the local Centers for Health Development of the conduct of the medical mission in their areas of responsibility.
• A foreign medical and surgical mission can only be conducted in a given community with the expressed and written consent of the local government unit and the local medical society.
• All medical and surgical procedures to be employed must conform to accepted local and international standards.
• All medicines to be dispensed should have clearance from the Bureau of Food and Drugs as to safety and efficacy, and shall have an expiry date of no less than one (1) year upon arrival in the Philippines. Medicines must be covered by the Certificate of Product Registration.
• A referral system to follow up patients seen during the medical and surgical mission must be established by the sponsor and collaborating organization(s).
• All cases seen during the medical/surgical mission must be documented and a summary report submitted to the Center for Health Development within two (2) weeks after the medical/surgical mission with the following basic information:

• Number and age of cases seen;
• Diagnosis of patients;
• List of medicines distributed and of surgical interventions done; and
• Endorsements to the necessary health facilities.

• Foreign physicians and health-related professionals are not allowed to practice their professions in the Philippines without a Special Permit issued by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).

Note: Only foreign physicians, whose country grants reciprocity for Philippine physicians to practice, may be granted Special Permits by the PRC. Presidential Decree No. 541 allows professionals who were former citizens of the Philippines and who have previously passed licensure examinations in the Philippines to practice their profession while in the country on a visit, sojourn or permanent residence. The said former Filipino professionals must be practitioners of good standing prior to their departure from the Philippines and in their adopted country.

Required Documents

The following documents will be required in requesting for clearances or endorsements in connection with foreign medical missions: 

• Application letter to the Director, BIHC-Department of Health, which contains the following information:
  1. Type of mission (i.e., medical, surgical or both);
  2. Location/venue of the mission;
  3. Duration and inclusive dates of the mission; and
  4. Name of sponsor or local counterpart(s), if any.

Important: The application letter with the supporting documents should be received by BIHCDOH at least three (3) months before the proposed schedule of the mission.

• List of the names of the medical and surgical team and credentials of each medical/paramedical member. The following duly authenticated credentials of the members of the medical team members must also be submitted:List of medicines (generic or brand names) and medical supplies that will be brought in or donated by the medical team, with the corresponding quantity, specification, and approximate value; and
  1. Two copies of passport size photograph taken not more than three (3) months before the filing of application;
  2. Photocopy of valid/current certificate of license to practice profession in their own country; and
  3. Documents attesting to the specialized studies, fields of specialization or experiences (if any).
• Endorsement of the local government unit or an accredited professional medical organization.

Note: The original copies of the documents need to be presented for verification, unless the photocopies are authenticated by competent or legally authorized persons or officers.

The DOH will review the request and will consult with the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), the Board of Medicine, the Philippine Medical Association (PMA), and the Philippine Hospital Association (PHA), whenever necessary. In certain cases, the DOH may recommend alternative activities, locations, or arrangements to coincide with government priorities. The head of the medical mission or the local sponsor/project coordinator will be informed, within two (2) weeks after receipt of the request of either the approval or disapproval of the request, and the reason for the decision. DOH may also recommend activities, tentative schedules, alternative sites/venues or arrangements, if any. The sponsor or local counterpart is required to submit an exit/termination report after the completion of the mission to the DOH through the Regional Director concerned.

Special Permit

A foreign physician and health-related professional can only practice his/her profession in the Philippines with a Special Permit from the Professional Regulation Commission. The following documents are required by PRC for the grant of Special Permit to foreign physicians:

1. Letter from the sponsoring local association, organization or entity requesting the PRC and the concerned Professional Regulatory Board for the issuance of Special Permits to members of the Medical Mission for a short period (not to exceed thirty days), indicating the specific municipality/city/province where the medical mission will be conducted.
2. Endorsement from the following accredited professional organization, if the sponsoring organization is not an accredited professional organization:Endorsement of the Department of Health
   1. Philippine Medical Association; for physicians
   2. Philippine Dental Association; for dentists
   3. Philippine Association of Optometrists; for optometrists
   4. Philippine Nurses Association; for nurses
4. Curriculum vitae of the members of the medical mission team duly authenticated by the Philippine Embassy/ Consulate with jurisdiction
5. Current/valid licenses to practice their profession in their own country
6. Residency Certificate (for anesthesiologists) and Board Certification (for surgeons and ophthalmologists)

Applications for release of Special Permits for the conduct of foreign medical missions must be submitted to the Professional Regulation Commission not later than ninety (90)days before the proposed medical mission.

The PRC notifies the sponsor of the medical mission of the approved resolution granting the issuance of Special Permit. PRC will charge a registration fee of One Thousand Two Hundred Fifty Pesos (P1,250.00) for each permit issued.

REFERENCES:

Guidelines for Granting Permits To Foreign Doctors Conducting Medical Missions Sponsored By Local Private Organization, Resolution No. 06, s. 1991 of the Board of Medicine.

Policies and Guidelines in the Conduct of Local and Foreign Medical and Surgical Missions, Administrative Order No. 179, s. 2001, Department of Health.

Presidential Decree No. 541, Allowing Former Filipino Professionals to Practice their Respective Professions in the Philippines

Securing duty-free clearance for donated items

• To secure duty-free clearance from the DOF, donations of medicines and medical supplies must be consigned to private (primary and secondary) and government hospitals duly licensed to operate by the DOH. Even if said donations are exempt from duties, these would still be subject to Value-Added Tax, which is computed at ten percent (10%) of the total landed cost of shipment.

• The following are the requirements in requesting for duty-free clearance from the DOF for the said donation:
  • From the donor:
    • Deed of donation duly authenticated by the Philippine Embassy or Consulate;
    • Packing list or itemized list of donated items; and
    • Shipping documents (bill of lading/air waybill).
  • From the donee/consignee:
    • Letter to the DOF/National Economic and Development Authority requesting for the issuance of duty-free clearance for the donation;
    • Duly notarized Deed of Acceptance;
    • Current and valid DOH License to Operate;
    • Endorsement from DOH; and
    • Certificate of Product Registration from BFAD (for medicines).

• For medicines, the following additional information will be required:
  • Generic name/brand name;
  • Formulation;
  • Dosage forms/strengths;
  • Batch/lot number and expiration date of at least six (6) months upon arrival in the Philippines; and
  • Name and address of the manufacturer.

• Donors are also advised to withhold shipment of the donation to the Philippines unless prior coordination with the local consignee has been made, and appropriate clearances from the government agencies concerned have been secured.