The Philippine Consulate General in Chongqing launched on 4 March 2011 the ePassport.

The ePassport takes the machine-readable passport (MRP) to the next higher level and standard in travel documents.It has an embedded microchip which contains data essential in verifying the passport holder's identity, including the holder's personal data, biometrics and digital signature.

This chip is interoperable, which means that it can be read by any standard passport machine reader in border controls worldwide.

Other features of the ePassport include a complex laminate that protects the data page against tampering; customized invisible images on every page; and a hidden and coded technology that allows the encoding of the holder’s name and passport number on the passport photo.

Filipinos in Chongqing and the provinces of Sichuan, Yunnan and Guizhou who wish to renew their passports may file their applications for the new ePassport with the Consulate.

Applicants should apply in person and submit the following documentary requirements:duly-accomplished passport application form and old passport.The applicant’s photograph, signature and fingerprint will be captured digitally at the Consulate.

Passport fee is RMB600.00.Turn-around time is about a month.