Why the 10-euro hike in passport renewal fee?
We would like to bring this problem to the attention of the authorities concerned.
Filipinos in many European countries, where the euro is the official currency, are wondering why the passport renewal fee has been increased to 60 euros from the old 50 euros.
A check with the Department of Foreign Affairs website revealed that passport renewal costs only $50. o We understand that we cannot peg the amount as the rate of exchange changes constantly. But we also understand that the euro is much higher than the US dollar. We understand, too, that the US dollar is the accepted international monetary standard.
Given these facts, if the continuous adjustment to the changing rates would amount to more bureaucratic work for consular employees, we would accept the old 50-euro charge for a passport renewal even if the euro is higher than the US dollar.
But why the 10-euro increase?
—RAMON MAYUGA,
