‘No appointment, no entry’ policy adopted in POEA

MANILA, Philippines — Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and other clients are now required to set an appointment to enter Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) offices.

In a recent memorandum circular, the POEA announced the adoption of a “no appointment, no entry” policy amid the continuing threat of COVID-19 in workplaces.

POEA chief Bernard Olalia said the new policy covers all clients of the agency, including foreign citizens who are intending to visit POEA offices.

“To the greatest extent possible, all routine, regular and ordinary transactions should be conducted using the agency’s online systems,” he said.

Olalia said personal appearances before the POEA shall be reserved for transactions that need verification of a person’s identity and when the submission of a document is required.

Booking an appointment shall be through the POEA online appointment system.

It shall also be mandatory for individuals doing face-to-face transactions with POEA to declare their current health status or they shall not be allowed entry.