The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has reiterated that mother's consent is required to obtain a Travel Clearance Certificate (TCC) for minors traveling abroad.
According to Katherine dela Cruz, social welfare officer of the Minors Traveling Abroad (MTA) office, the DSWD has strict processes to ensure that Filipino children are safe from trafficking and exploitation. She said that the personal presence of the mother during the interview is required even if she signs the consent form.
Dela Cruz also mentioned that the mother's permission is required for children who will leave the country for competition, study grant, or training abroad. This is based on the Family Code, which states that the mother has sole parental authority over the child.
If the mother is missing, the father or guardian should obtain a social case study report from the local social welfare office and a police blotter as proof of the child's situation.
DSWD said its regional offices are also ready to assist those who cannot use the MTA online system or do not have an internet connection.
