Electronic gadgets banned at US Embassy in Manila

Starting March 1, visa applicants at the US Embassy in Manila will be barred from entering the consular section if they are carrying cell phones, IPods, MP3s/MP4s, cameras and other similar electronic gadgets. The Embassy said in a press statement that the measure was intended “for the safety and security of all applicants and employees." “There will be no storage facility for cell phones and electronic devices at the Embassy; applicants for both non-immigrant and immigrant visas should leave their electronic equipment in a safe location off Embassy grounds during their appointments," the statement said. The new policy also applies to PDAs, laptops, and music players. The embassy said the policy will “help speed applicant processing to their interview appointments." It reminded applicants to be aware that if they miss a visa interview appointment, they will have to reschedule through normal procedures. “We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate the cooperation of all non-immigrant and immigrant visa applicants," the embassy said. All other processes and requirements for applying for both non-immigrant and immigrant visas remain the same. Information on the application processes can be found on the U.S. Embassy’s Web site at http://philippines.usembassy.gov. - GMANews.TV