New dates for passport issuance announced

By THE STAR STAFF

Secretary of State Rosachely Rivera Santana announced Sunday that over the next few weeks, the Passport Office will bring its services to various municipalities around the island, as part of an effort to facilitate the process of obtaining the document without requiring people to travel long distances.

“The response from the public has been extraordinary. In recent months, the office staff, led by Dwight Fagundo Ruiz, visited several towns where hundreds of people successfully processed their passports,” Rivera Santana said. “This effort is being carried out in collaboration with the mayors and their teams, who have been allies in bringing services to the people.”

The official reminded applicants that it is important to bring all required documents and verify their passport expiration date to avoid any setbacks. Requirements include: Application; original birth certificate and a double-sided copy on separate sheets; passport-sized photo, without glasses; copy of driver’s license or official ID, both sides; passport fee (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/es/pasaportes.html).

Passport fairs scheduled for October are as follows:

* Oct. 15 – Añasco; Electronic Library, San Antonio Street #20; Hours: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Information: 787-826-3100 ext. 2015

* Oct. 17 – Ponce; Passport Office, former Felipe García Building, Marina Street #9223; Hours: 8 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.; Appointments and information: www.estado.pr.gov

* Oct. 21 – Maunabo; Serafin Meléndez Quiñones Acoustic Shell, Juan R. Garzot Street #39; Hours: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Information: 787-622-4975

* Oct. 23 – Arecibo; Arecibo Passport Office, Santiago Cabán Building, Ste. 103, Mariano Vidal Street #158; Hours: 8 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.; Appointments and information: www.estado.pr.gov

* Oct. 27 – Aibonito; Municipal Library, Gerónimo Martínez Street (end); Hours: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Information: 787-735-6535

* Oct. 29 – Barceloneta; City Hall, Georgetti Avenue, in front of José Cordero Rosario Recreation Plaza; Hours: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Information: 787-921-755.

Rivera Santana noted that the fairs will continue to be held in different municipalities over the coming months.