The US Department of State thru the various US Embassies abroad provides services to their citizens when they are abroad. These services include basic information dissemination such as travel advisories to protection such as providing information on where to find legal assistance and ensuring basic human rights are accorded when a US Citizen is subject to criminal proceedings abroad.

In order to avail of consular assistance, US Embassies around the world urge their citizens to register with them. This registration makes the US Citizen’s presence and whereabouts known to the United States Embassy. In the event that a consular officer needs to contact the citizen, they have updated information on the citizen. For US citizens in the Philippines, they can register with the US Embassy in Manila at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/.

If the US citizen plans on staying for an extended period of time in a certain country or plans to travel to a country with a history of political unrest, natural disasters, or where communication is difficult, then registration becomes very important.

When registering, the US Embassy requires the US citizen’s passport information or proof of citizenship, a detailed itinerary, and contact information of a friend or relative in the US The information will be critical when the passport is lost or stolen. It is also worthwhile knowing that under the Privacy Act, no information on the US citizen’s welfare or whereabouts will be released to anyone without the US citizen’s written authorization.

Registration gives the US Embassy direct access to US citizens access in emergency situations. Also, it places the US citizen’s on the Warden Email list. This email list is used by the Warden to notify US citizens of threats to their safety and security and provide information on Embassy events such as outreach programs, fairs, etc. A newsletter with articles of interest is also provided to the registered US citizen. Finally, an online registration is provided and if any difficulties are encountered or if the US citizen has any question about the State department’s travel registration website, an email is provided -- CAIbrs@state.gov. For registration questions in the Philippines, an email is also provided -- ACSInfoManila@state.gov.

This registration system is not unique to the US Embassies alone. Most, if not all, country embassies have some form of a registration system for their respective citizens. It is important that Filipinos, who are abroad either on a temporary or permanent basis, familiarize themselves with the services provided by the Philippine Consulate in their area. By knowing what services are provided, one can avail and make full use of the benefits and protections provided by the Philippine government.

Atty. Michael Templo is an attorney admitted to practice law in New York State and Federal Courts and is a partner at Templo & Templo http://www.templolaw.com with offices in New York, USA and Makati City, Philippines. Atty. Templo specializes in US Immigration matters. Atty. Mike Templo is also a host for ANC’s “Crossing Borders”.

The discussion above is not intended as legal advice, and cannot be relied upon for any purpose without the services of a qualified professional. For your comments and questions, Atty. Templo can be reached at info@templolaw.com or log on to www.templolaw.com.