PHILIPPINE EMBASSY, AUSTRALIA IMPLEMENTS FIRST EVER ELECTRONIC CONSULAR PAYMENT SYSTEM 

15 September 2006—The Philippine Embassy in Canberra has commenced its electronic payment system for the delivery of its consular services in Australia.  

With its acceptance now of credit cards and bank key cards, the Embassy facilitates and secures the collection of fees to benefit its clients, Ambassador Ernesto H. De Leon said in his report to the Department of Foreign Affairs. 

The Ambassador explained that under the new system, those applying for visa, passport, or legalization of documents using the postal service no longer need to purchase bank cheques or money orders to be able to pay the Embassy’s services. They only have to provide their credit card numbers, which considerably lowers their transaction costs. Likewise, those applying in person have the option to use their bank key cards instead of cash. 

After its pilot implementation, the Embassy will also be setting up the electronic payment system for all honorary consulates under its jurisdiction. This will centralize the collection of fees and ensures a more efficient financial management generating greater value to the clients and the Department, Ambassador De Leon said. END

/jay

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