Married Filipino women renewing their passports now have more control over how they are identified. Under the New Philippine Passport Act, they may choose to return to using their maiden names. The change reflects a growing recognition of personal identity beyond marital status.
What Changed Under The Law
The update stems from Republic Act No. 11983, which expanded name options for women after marriage. The Department of Foreign Affairs Office of Consular Affairs confirmed that the option applies during passport renewal. It is a voluntary move, not an automatic one.
A One Time Decision
The law allows reversion to a maiden name only once in a lifetime. Once chosen, the maiden name must also appear on all other government issued IDs and official records. This makes the decision permanent and consistent across documents.
Who Can Avail of The Option
The reversion applies to married women for various personal or legal reasons. It also covers those whose marriages ended through annulment, nullity, legal separation, foreign divorce, or widowhood. Each situation follows specific documentary rules.
Basic Documents Needed
Applicants must present PSA issued birth and marriage records. A notarized affidavit explaining the request and confirming that the option has not been used before is required. The latest Philippine passport and a valid government ID reflecting the maiden name must also be submitted.
When Marriage Has Ended
Different documents apply when the request follows the death of a spouse or court recognized separation. Widows need a PSA issued death certificate or its foreign equivalent with English translation. Those with annulled or dissolved marriages must submit a PSA marriage certificate with the proper annotation.
Affidavit Matters
The DFA encourages applicants to use the affidavit template available on the OCA website. A custom notarized affidavit is still accepted if it clearly states the reason and compliance with requirements. Accuracy and completeness remain essential.
What This Means For Women
The policy gives women a clearer say in how they carry their names in official travel records. It recognizes that marriage does not have to define legal identity forever. For many, it is a practical change with personal meaning.
What to Remember Before Applying
The reversion is optional, deliberate, and final once approved. Applicants are advised to align all their IDs before making the switch. Careful preparation can help ensure a smooth passport renewal process.
