Sunday, February 19, 2012

Report of Birth in United Arab Emirates

Report of birth of the infant/child needs to be accomplished by the Filipino parent(s) at the Consulate General

Required Documents:
  • Birth Certificate issued by the UAE Ministry of Health, duly stamped by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs with English translation and six (6) photocopies;
  • Six (6) Photocopies of the passport of each parent;
  • Authenticated Marriage Contract of parents with six (6) photocopies. Note: If one of the parents is not a Filipino Citizen, Marriage Contract must be attested by Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dubai. Such marriage must be reported first before the Report of Birth could proceed.
PROCEDURES
1.  Fill out Report of Birth Form.
2.  Proceed to Passport Processing Area. Submit documents required.
3.  Proceed to the Cashier (Room 3) for payment.
4.  On release date, after five (5) working days, proceed to Releasing Section.
4.  After six (6) months, the despatch number/reference number and date when the document was endorsed shall be made available. This is required by the NSO in securing an authenticated copy of the Birth Certificate.
Fee : AED 100.00 
Note: One (1) set of photocopied documents will be used for the Enrolment step in the Passport application process (see Philippine Passports Section for First-Time Applicants)

Passport Application Procedure to get an appointment

TO GET AN APPOINTMENT

Write to:
mrpdxb@yahoo.com (include full name and mobile number)
OR Visit us to get appointment date.

PASSPORT APPLICATION/RENEWAL

1. Get an appointment.
2. On date of appointment, fill out
E-passport Application Form.
3. Proceed to Passport Processing Area [1]
4. Proceed to Encoding Area [2]
5. Payment [3]
6. Proceed to Releasing Section on date of release[4]

REQUIREMENTS: Personal appearance, Old passport, Photocopy of a. Data page b. Visa page c. Last page

REQUIREMENTS FOR BABIES/INFANTS.

  1. Parents do not need to get appointment for the passport application of their infants. E-Passport Application Form, accomplished by either parent (if out of wedlock, by mother);
  2. Birth Certificate issued by the UAE Ministry of Health, duly stamped by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (translated into English), (6 copies);
  3. Report of Birth Form, (6 copies);
  4. Photocopies of the Passport of each parent, (6 copies);
  5. Authenticated Marriage contract of Parents (6 photocopies); Report of Marriage (both Filipinos but married outside Consulate General, duly Authenticated by Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dubai.
  6. Personal appearance of Filipino parent(s) and infant/child;
FEE: Passport Renewal: 240 AED


PASSPORT RENEWAL + EXTENSION OF VALIDITY OF PASSPORTS FOR EXPIRED/NO LONGER VALID (LESS THAN 6 MONTHS)

1. Get an appointment. Note: Extension of validity of old passport is only for emergency purposes. Validity of old passport cannot be extended if applicant will not apply for renewal at the same time.
2. On day of appointment, fill out the following:
a. E-passport Application Form and
b. Application for Amendment/Extension of Validity of Passport
c. Affidavit (stating reason for Extension)
3. Proceed to Passport Processing Area [1]
4. Payment [3]
5. Proceed to Encoding Area [2]
6. If expedited (same day release) come back on designated time [1]. If regular process,
proceed to Releasing Section [4] on date of release.


FEE: Passport Renewal: 240 AED + Expedite Extension (same day release): 120 AED or Regular Extension (2 days after): 80 AED


REQUIREMENTS: Personal appearance, Old passport, Photocopy (2 sets) of a. Data page b. Visa page c. Last page, 1 pcs. passport size picture


AMENDMENT OF ENTRY1. Fill out Application for Amendment Form.
2. Proceed to Passport Processing Area [1]
3. Payment [3]
4. If expedited (same day release) come back on designated time [1]. If regular process,
proceed to Releasing Section [4] on date of release.


REQUIREMENTS: Personal appearance, Old passport, Photocopy of a. Data page b. Visa page
c. Last page, 1 pcs. passport size picture, and



If amendment is from Single to Married:
  1. Authenticated Marriage Contract by DFA Manila (both Filipinos and married in the Philippines) or Authenticated by Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dubai (one party not Filipino or married outside the Consulate General).
  2. Report of Marriage (both Filipinos but married outside Consulate General/ one party not Filipino)
If amendment is from Married to Single:
  1. Authenticated Annotated Marriage Contract by DFA Manila.
FEES: Expedite Extension (same day release): 120 AED
Regular Extension (2 days after): 80 AED


LOST PASSPORT
Procedures same as Application of Passport. No need to secure appointment date.
REQUIREMENTSa. Police Report on Lost Passport (with English Translation);
b. Duly accomplished Affidavit of Loss (form available at the Philippine Consulate General);
c. Photocopy of lost passport (if available) or Birth Certificate (Duly Authenticated by DFA Manila)



FEES: MRRP (Green) and MRP (Maroon) = 360 AED
E-Passports= 600 AED
Affidavit of Loss = 100 AED


RELEASING OF PASSPORTS


On date of release, bring old passport and receipt at Releasing Section.
To track your passport: http://passport.pcgdubai.net/

Philippine E-passport

The Philippine ePassport is a passport which features microchip technology. An integrated circuit (chip) within its pages contains the data that are essential in verifying the identity of the passport holder. These data include the personal data found on the data page of the passport, the biometrics of the passport holder, the unique chip identification number, and a digital signature to verify the authenticity of the data stored on the chip.
The chip technology allows the information stored in an ePassport to be read by special chip readers at a close distance.

What are Biometrics?
Biometrics are the unique and measurable physical characteristics of an individual that include face recognition, fingerprints, and iris scans.
The Philippine Electronic Passport (or Philippine ePassport) uses the digital image of the passport photograph that can be used with face recognition technology to verify the identity of the passport holder.
It captures the fingerprints of the passport holder, for identification using the Automated Fingerprint Verification System (AFIS).
What are the special features of the Philippine ePassport?
The Philippine ePassport allows information stored on the chip to be verified with the information visually displayed on the passport. It uses contactless microchip technology that allows the information stored on the chip to be read by special chip readers at a close distance. It contains an integrated photograph of the holder, a digitized secondary photo, and an electronic print of the holder’Â’s signature. It contains overt and hidden security features such as Invisible Personal Information (IPI), letter screen, microprinting, and UV reactive ink, among others.
What is the difference between the existing maroon machine readable passport (MRP) and the ePassport?
An MRP is a passport that contains a machine-readable zone (MRZ) printed in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standard. It is capable of being read manually and with the use of a machine.
An ePassport has an embedded IC chip where the photograph and personal information of the bearer are stored in accordance with ICAO specifications. These information can be read by chip readers at close distance. An ePassport also contains a machine-readable zone.
What advantages does the Philippine ePassport offer?
The ePassport is highly secure, hence avoids passport reproduction and tampering. The ePassport database is enhanced with AFIS that guards against multiple passport issuances to the same person and enhances imposter detection.
It facilitates fast clearance of travellers at immigration checks. ePassports provide travellers benefits such as use of automated border clearance or “E-gates”, automated issuance of boarding passes, and faster travel arrangements with airlines.
For countries, the use of electronic passport also provides better border protection and security.
Why do we have to use ePassports now?
The MRP has the minimum ICAO standards in travel documents. The ePassport is the world standard in travel documents. As member of ICAO, the Philippines has an international obligation to enhance the security of its travel documents.
The issuance of ePassports will allow the Philippines to offer world-class consular services to its nationals.
Countries have greater confidence and acceptance of the ePassport since it is enhanced with biometric technology.
ePassports are already being used in more than 60 countries worldwide. In ASEAN, five countries have already issued e-passports (Singapore, Brunei, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia).
Who can avail of the Philippine E-Passport?
Filipino citizens who can comply with the documentary requirements may avail of the ePassport. Regular issuance of the ePassport started at the Philippine Consulate General on 14 June 2010.
How much does an ePassport cost?
The ePassport is available for AED 240.

Why is the ePassport more expensive than the current passport?
The added security features of the ePassport are factored into the production cost. Comparative prices of ePassports from different countries, however, show that the cost of the Philippine ePassport is among the lowest in the world. Note also that you do not have to bring passport-size photos as your photograph will be taken during the Enrolment step.
What other countries use ePassports?
ePassports are already being used in more than 60 countries worldwide. In ASEAN, five countries have already issued ePassports (Singapore, Brunei, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia). In the future, all countries are seen to switch to the ePassport due to the increasing need for efficient and better border security.
What is the ePassport logo and what does it mean?
The ePassport logo which appears on the cover of the ePassport is the international symbol for an electronic passport. It means that the passport has an integrated circuit or chip on which data about the passport and passport holder is stored. The logo will alert border inspection lanes at all airports and transit ports equipped with special data readers for ePassports that the passport is an ePassport.
I have a previously issued passport. Can I use it for travel as long as it is still valid?
Yes. Previously issued passports (MRP and non-MRP) are valid until their expiry. It is a good practice to make sure your passport is valid at least six months before intended date of travel to avoid any inconvenience.
What is the procedure for applying for an ePassport or renewing an old passport?
Click here.
How do I make an appointment for ePassport application?
Click here.
On the appointment date, bring the old passport and photocopies of the first, visa and last pages of said passport. Your locator number only confirms your reservation slot and does not indicate your number for processing.  Note that the application process is a on a first-come, first-served basis so that if you come at almost 11 AM, you may already have to wait for quite some time as there will be numerous applicants ahead of you.
Can existing holders of the maroon MRP simply surrender their passports and have them converted to an ePassport?
Holders of MRPs can have their passport cancelled and apply for ePassport if they so wish.
How long must I wait before I will receive the new ePassport?
It will take approximately 4-6 weeks from date of application before the applicant will receive the new ePassport. However, this is not guaranteed as uncontrollable circumstances may arise that will prevent the ePassports from being delivered within the estimated time frame. All applicants are therefore advised to apply months before their intended travels or six months before the expiration of their current passports.

Source: http://www.pcgdubai.net/

Related links:

Procedure to get an appointment

Releasing of passport

Releasing of e-passport

RELEASING OF PASSPORTS

On date of release, bring old passport and receipt at Releasing Section.
To track your passport: http://passport.pcgdubai.net/



PASSPORT TRACKING
Only passports applied on and after 01 February 2011 are available for tracking. Status of applications made before this date can be checked by writing to mrpdxb@yahoo.com

Special Characters:
Ñ, ñ (just copy and paste)
All fields marked with an asterisk (*) are required.
Top of Form
First Name * What's your first name?
Last Name * What's your last name?
Middle Name What's your middle name?
Date of Application *
format: mm/dd/yyyy

Bread more salty than you think







Dubai: You may think that not adding salt to your food will help control high blood pressure, but there are food which have hidden salts such as your morning toast.
 
Breads and rolls have more than twice the amount of sodium than junk food like chips, an American study warns.
 
Surprisingly, salty snacks are on the bottom of the list of food items which are the top sources of sodium, according to a study by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
 
A Dubai-based doctor said he was not sure whether breads are more saltier, but he noted that people tend to eat bread more than chips and there lies the danger. "You get bread rolls as appetisers [in restaurants] garlic breads [in pizza parlours]..."
But why is salt dangerous? If you are already hypertensive too much salt will lead to high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and in the long-run, your kidney will shut down, said Dr Lalit Uchil, specialist in internal medicine at Welcare Ambulatory Care Centre.

He says hypertension is very common in the UAE, and the risk factors we all know: smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, and stress, whether at work or due to financial or relationship pressures.
Apparently, white, sliced bread has that killer salt and it is the fastest selling bread variety in the country, after Arabic bread. But salt is important in baking bread. Salt helps the yeast to rise and it also affects the texture of the crust. Bakers say that without salt, bread will taste bland.
 
Proper labels
 
But British experts want to cut down the amount of salt in bread and ensure that it is clearly labelled. They also want bakeries to reduce the amount of salt to 1gm per 100gm.
 
Not surprisingly many of the white, sliced breads available in Dubai have no proper labels, unlike brown breads which lists down the ingredients used.
 
Shakeer a bakery supervisor says that white bread is the fastest seller. He said that he adds 10gm for every kilo of dough.
 
That apparently, is the standard followed in every bakery.
 
Some bakeries also makes breads without salt, or diet bread for people with diabetes. Yasmine Haddad, a dietician at Live'ly, says that too much salt in your diet could also lead to water retention and can affect bone health, meaning that in the long run your bones could lose their density and become brittle.
 
She said we are making our children addicted to salt and noted how fast food establishments add more salt to make food tastier. She advises against giving cold cuts to children such as processed meats in school lunches.
 
Dr Safeek Ali, a dietician at Welcare Hospital, believes that you should restrict your salt intake to 5 to 6 gms daily, that's about a teaspoon. He also warns against tinned foods, which have lots of salt as preservative, ketchup and sauces.
 
The CDC recommends no more than 2,300mg of sodium a day. It notes that certain people, such as those with high blood pressure, should eat even less. But average sodium consumption in the US is around 3,300mg.
 
Welcare's Uchil says the trick is not to add salt at the table. "Most of the fresh and natural foods do not have salt," he notes.
 
While British manufacturers have already reduced the sodium content in bread, there is very little knowledge among consumers in the UAE on what salt does to you in the long run.

A recent study showed that most residents are unaware of the health risks they are taking daily by eating wrong.
Food for thought
  • 450 and 1,050mg: 3 ounces of luncheon meat
  • 1 ounce bag of potato chips: 50 to 200mg
  • Ill effects of excessive salt:
  • Raise blood pressure (BP) n Can lead to heart attack/stroke
  • Long-term effect is kidney failure
  • Recommended daily intake of salt
  • Adults: 1 teaspoon
  • Children: Less than a teaspoon

Dusty conditions to continue for next few days






Abu Dhabi: Strong winds and a heavy suspension of dust lowered visibility across most of the UAE on Saturday. Similar conditions are expected to continue over the next few days.
Motorists have been warned to be careful on highways, while residents have been advised to stay away from the seas that are expected to become very rough by Monday.
 
Current dusty conditions, that started on Friday, have been brought about by a southeasterly to southerly flow of winds, which is not uncommon around this time of the year, an official at the National Centre of Meteorology and Seismology (NCMS) told Gulf News.
 
"These wind flows are typical to the second half of February and they lead to an eruption of dust before ending in possible rain," the official added.
While there is a possibility of rain due to cloud accumulation, temperatures are expected to fall considerably in the later part of the day today.

"By tomorrow, wind speeds can exceed 60 kilometres per hour, while maximum temperatures along the coastline may decrease to 20 degrees Celsius — down from 34 degrees in some areas on Friday afternoon," he said.
 
In coastal areas, strong winds can cause many heavy objects to be displaced, leading to injuries.
Low visibility is also expected to persist during the week, especially in the country's interior areas.
 
‘Lung allergies'
 
"In Jebel Ali, visibility has fallen to about 300 metres, while in many interior areas and parts of the Western Region, visibility has been recorded at 500 metres," he said. Residents must therefore take precautions against the fine dust particles in the air, doctors said. "Elderly residents with a history of respiratory conditions like bronchitis, asthma and emphysema should remain indoors, as the dust can cause lung allergies," advised Dr Roshan John, an internal medicine specialist at the capital's Lifeline Hospital.
 
"When leaving the house, they should cover their faces, especially their nose and mouth, with a damp cloth or several layers of thin, closely-woven cloth," he said.
 
The doctor added that over the last few days, he had seen several cases of allergic conjunctivitis, an uncomfortable condition that leads to redness, itching and watering of the eyes.

"It is better to put on protective, wraparound eyewear to repel any dust particles. If people face discomfort, they should also avoid rubbing the eyes and instead, sprinkle water directly into their eyes," Dr John said.
Precautions
  • Avoid speeding and drive carefully when visibility is low, or when winds are strong.
  • Avoid venturing into the desert.
  • Stay away from the rough seas that are expected over the coming days.
  • Turn on the air conditioning in the car and keep windows closed while driving.
  • Cover your face with a damp cloth if you are prone to respiratory diseases.
  • Wear protective glasses to shield your eyes from dust allergies.
  • If dust enters the eyes, avoid rubbing them and instead splash water into them.

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Watch out for phone SCAM




British expat warns others to beware of a hoax where 'winners' are asked to hand over Dhs2,500


An expat has warned of an elaborate scam in which fraudsters tell their victims they’ve won Dhs500,000 in a prize draw.

The Brit was targeted earlier this week and is concerned some people might fall for the complicated con.

She received a call from a man who told her she was the lucky winner in a raffle. But in a bizarre set of instructions she was then told to buy Dhs2,500 of credit for her Etisalat telephone.

He then asked for the long number on the back of her sim card and was told the Dhs2,500 would be deducted from her credit balance but would be refunded when she collected her windfall.

The woman, whose daughter received a similar call the same day, said: “It was all very specific. I was then to go to the bank next to the clock tower in Deira and ask for a Mr Hammad. I was told he would give me my prize plus the Dhs2,500 back in a cheque. He even gave me a mobile number so I could call him back.

“I was immediately suspicious. You never hand over money to get money. But I’m a bit concerned others might fall for it.” The mobile number given to the woman was switched off yesterday.

A spokesperson for Dubai Police said: “Anyone who receives a call telling them that they have won huge sums of money but is given conditions where they have to spend their own money should report the caller’s number to police or Etisalat to help arrest the criminals.”

“This is not a new type of scam. Many people have been targeted before and we have successfully made arrests. Ninety-nine per cent of those involved in such scams are people from Asia.

“We have made several announcements through the media warning the public not to be tempted by such calls.”

Source: 7days