In a statement, the DFA said Remulla’s remarks undermine the department’s institutional integrity and unfairly damage the reputation of the Philippine Foreign Service and its personnel.
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The department maintained that its authority to issue visas is grounded in Philippine law and international conventions, citing Executive Order No. 292, or the Administrative Code of 1987, and the 1963 Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.
The DFA also stressed that visa issuance is not merely a clerical task, as it involves evaluating applications, verifying documents and exercising official judgment under applicable laws and regulations.
While the department acknowledged that third-party providers, such as VFS, may assist in administrative services, it clarified that the authority to approve or deny visa applications remains with Philippine embassies and consulates.
On visa fees, the DFA said collections are governed by existing laws and regulations, including the prescribed Schedule of Fees.
The department reiterated that it does not tolerate corruption and remains committed to transparency, accountability and professionalism in public service.
The DFA said it would continue to fulfill its legal responsibilities and uphold the integrity of the country’s visa-issuance system in the interest of the Philippines and the Filipino people.
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