steps in applying for a passport:

nah, i'm giving steps kuno when I had mine processed almost hassle free. but at least i tried to be as cooperative as anyone, who was asking special favors, could be.

well anyway, this may be of help to the republic of the Philippines.

1. call any of the DFA employees first to ask all the necessary requirements including the fees (don't believe if they tell you it's P500 'coz it's not!). and get this employee's name for assistance when you finally get to the DFA office.

2. be sure that your pictures (passport size) have that "durable" quality to last 5 years (i got that from DFA 7 assistant director who told me to get a new set of pictures. grrr)

3. bring extra money in case they'd ask you to change your pictures downstairs (P100 for 5 copies). yeah, they have their own studio there too. enterprising!

4. be patient. this is a very busy office, with practically hundreds or even thousands of applicants come here everyday. but don't worry as the processing is smooth and efficient (i'd like to believe so).

5. wait. i mean go home after you shall have paid P750 (for regular) or more than that for overtime processing, and come back on the day specified in your receipt.

6. say your thank you's to the people who have helped you saved a couple of weeks of waiting in line (like in my case)