MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Thursday, October 17, said it has resumed processing passports in Cebu after a suspension because of the recent earthquake.

In a statement, the DFA resumed its passport and consular services in Cebu after it learned that its building is “structurally sound” after the earthquake. The assurances came from the management of Pacific Mall, Mandaue City, which houses the DFA’s regional office.

The agency also said it will open its Cebu regional office on Sunday, October 20, to make up for a temporary suspension because of the earthquake.

“Bearing in mind the public safety, DFA Cebu with due diligence will manage the number of passport applicants entering the building,” the DFA said.

The DFA suspended all passport and consular services in its Cebu regional consular office on Wednesday, August 16, because of the earthquake.

The magnitude 7.2 earthquake last Tuesday, October 15, killed at least 158 people and left others injured. 

The number of casualties is expected to rise as rescuers and relief workers reach some of the isolated towns hardest hit by the disaster. READ: Quake toll now 158; 3.4M people affected. – Rappler.com