25 May 2020 – As part of its new normal, the Philippine Embassy in Copenhagen rolled out its online application and appointment system on 12 May 2020. The Embassy’s clients were served on-site following the calendar of the applicants’ confirmed schedules. Priority services rendered mainly consisted of passport processing, notarials and release of previously-processed documents. Under such system, the influx of clients is properly synchronized (time and motion) adhering to safety concerns of physical distancing and, if need arises, contact tracing.

“I like how they did it with the online appointment system especially during this time of pandemic.’, commented by a happy client who renewed her passport. Another applicant said, “Online appointment is good and efficient.” One client also mused, “I highly appreciate how they deal with such concern. No complications and hassles. They made it easy for us.”

The current set-up under its pilot implementation accommodates 12 clients a day, with a total capacity of 264 clients a month. Post, in its efforts to optimize the functionality and benefits of the system, shall soon increase the slots up to 22 clients a day, equivalent to 484 clients a month in order to address backlogs in consular services and have its operations normalize as early as possible.

The methods and procedures on the delivery of consular services being adopted by Post are consistent with the workplace guidelines and protocols mandated by the local authorities vis-à-vis COVID-19 pandemic. END