00:00A fairly new DSWD-conceived program that assists juveniles and adolescents in their out-of-town travel since Parental Company has been quite a hit,
00:09generating 1,700 applicants who digitally fill out and sign the applications online.
00:14Our Noel Talacay tells us more.
00:18There was an overwhelming response.
00:20This is how the Department of Social Welfare and Development, or DSWD,
00:25described the public response to its online process on the application of Minor Traveling Abroad, or MTA, clearance after its implementation last month.
00:36The agency's statement was made during its weekly news forum this morning.
00:41According to the data of DSWD, over 1,700 applicants from MTA were received by the agency since it was launched on February this year.
00:53On average, the agency is processing 127 online applicants per day.
00:58We've already seen the increase in the number of applicants, so it's more the awareness of the people we see here,
01:04and the convenience that anytime you're ready to apply.
01:08So now, there are more applicants for MTA.
01:12The issuance of the MTA clearance is a service of the DSWD for minors traveling alone or those accompanied by individuals other than their parents and or legal guardian.
01:26It is part of the digitalization program of the agency under Harmonized Electronic License and Permit System, or HARPS program,
01:34as the agency's effort to adhere to the digitalization push of the Marquez, Jr. administration.
01:41Noel Talacay from the National TV Network for New and Better Philippines.
