ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

So I don't need to do anything at all? :unsure:

Yes, you don't need to do anything. Remember the email that the embassy sent you? There's a part there that mentions about the validity of NOA2. Here it is...

... x x x ...
We want to assure you that while an approved fiancé(e) petition is originally valid for four months from the date of its approval, a consular officer may revalidate it for an additional four months. This revalidation is routine as long as you and the beneficiary remain legally free to marry and continue to intend to do so within 90 days after the beneficiary is admitted into the United States.
... x x x ...


I see. It didn't understand "routine" to mean automatic, but I guess it is.

Hmmm, then why does VJ have a sample letter requesting an extension?
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2007-01-02 02:12:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
:unsure:

I need to send a letter requesting extension of petition approval. What's the procedure here? Send it to the Embassy Consulate IV fax?


No need to send letter. The embassy routinely extends the validity of NOA2 as long as you both remain legally free to marry.


So I don't need to do anything at all? :unsure:

Edited by garya505, 02 January 2007 - 01:08 AM.

garya505Not TellingPhilippines2007-01-02 01:07:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
I need to send a letter requesting extension of petition approval. What's the procedure here? Send it to the Embassy Consulate IV fax?
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2007-01-01 23:48:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Thanks for the fax number. Is this the main fax number at the USE? Is there another fax number that goes directly into the K1 department for interview requests? I just want to be sure to fax the letter to the right number with as little chance as possible for it getting "lost in the shuffle".

Rob,

The fax number and the all the requirements are listed in the links below. Please read carefully and follow instructions closely as any incomplete information will result in non-action by embassy.

http://usembassy.sta...1/wwwhni20.html
http://manila.usemba...ov/wwwfearf.pdf

Updating timelines....

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OF YOU MY VJ FRIENDS!!! :dance:

Legend:
OK - Visa approved
AR - Admin Review/Add'l Docs Required
ME - Military Expedite
AO - Age-Out (Derivative approaching age 21)

Name.................NOA2.....MNL REC’D..PACKET...INTERVIEW..MNL CASE#..STATUS..DELIVERED/#OF DAYS/PLACE DLVRD

K1 LIST
01..louchiw.........02-xx-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..07-28-06..2006-xxxxxx..AR..previous AOS
02..timmaricel......04-07-06..09-21-06..10-20-06..12-04-06..2006-601xxx..OK
03..Madison Man.....09-01-06..09-20-06..xx-xx-xx..12-04-06..2006-601xxx..OK..Dec 12/06 days/Manila
04..zethris.........04-13-06..09-20-06..xx-xx-xx..12-04-06..2006-60xxxx..OK..Dec 12/08 days/???
05..annie19.........05-09-06..05-22-06..xx-xx-xx..09-21-06..2006-635xxx..AR..Divorce decree

06..BJZags..........08-04-06..08-17-06..10-20-06..12-05-06..2006-720xxx..OK..Dec 28/23 days/Makati
07..tamara..........07-31-06..08-24-06..10-26-06..12-11-06..2006-723xxx..OK..Dec 14/03 days/Kalookan
08..shimmy..........08-01-06..08-23-06..10-20-06..12-11-06..2006-723xxx..OK..Dec 21/10 days/Davao
09..FMerz...........08-09-06..08-23-06..xx-xx-xx..12-12-06..2006-723xxx..OK..Dec 13/01 day/Picked up
10..roymcn3rd.......07-31-06..08-23-06..10-25-06..12-13-06..2006-723xxx..OK..Dec 20/07 days/Davao
11..mae_jim.........08-03-06..08-23-06..10-21-06..12-18-06..2006-728xxx..OK..Dec 20/02 days/Picked up
12..Elizabeth.......08-15-06..08-21-06..10-21-06..12-21-06..2006-729xxx..OK..Dec 28/07 days/Makati

13..treynroxy.......08-03-06..08-25-06..11-29-06..01-11-07..2006-736xxx
14..TimR............08-10-06..09-06-06..11-28-06..01-11-07..2006-736xxx
15..daveandlirio....08-03-06..08-28-06..xx-xx-xx..01-12-07..2006-737xxx
16..lovebug.........08-12-06..08-29-06..11-29-06..01-12-07..2006-737xxx
17..neonspark.......08-23-06..xx-xx-xx..11-28-06..01-12-07..2006-737xxx
18..kirkandjenny....08-18-06..09-26-06..11-29-06..01-19-07..2006-743xxx
19..Glenn&Rosemarie.08-29-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..01-25-07..2006-750xxx
20. roundbo.........09-11-06..09-23-06..xx-xx-xx..01-30-07..2006-756xxx

21..ronmay..........08-28-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..12-27-06..2006-757xxx
22..Robhankins......09-01-06..09-22-06..xx-xx-xx..12-28-06..2006-761xxx..Interview postponed
23..ellmoi..........09-17-06..09-26-06..xx-xx-xx..12-28-06..2006-762xxx

24..jo&john.........08-30-06..10-06-06..PICKED UP.10-18-06..2006-764xxx..OK-AO..Oct 25/07 days/Manila
25..RiggerAF........09-04-06..10-02-06..12-14-06..01-18-07..2006-764xxx
26..sway............09-05-06..10-30-06..xx-xx-xx..01-19-07..2006-764xxx
27..edz2006.........09-05-06..10-04-06..12-14-06..01-23-07..2006-764xxx

28..vic&el4ever.....09-07-06..09-27-06..xx-xx-xx..02-01-07..2006-768xxx
29..davidjack.......09-05-06..10-04-06..xx-xx-xx..02-02-07..2006-770xxx
30..binow...........09-20-06..10-02-06..xx-xx-xx..02-02-07..2006-770xxx
31..lebby...........09-07-06..10-03-06..12-21-06..02-05-07..2006-772xxx
32..arch_n_cel......09-11-06..10-18-06..xx-xx-xx..02-02-07..2006-772xxx
33..sbqwolf1........09-11-06..10-18-06..12-22-06..02-05-07..2006-772xxx
34..lawrencejeramie.09-11-06..10-17-06..12-23-06..02-06-07..2006-775xxx
35..JelloShotGirl...09-29-06..10-13-06..12-22-06..02-08-07..2006-776xxx
36..Richard&Maria...09-05-06..10-06-06..xx-xx-xx..02-13-07..2006-779xxx
37..garya505........09-18-06..10-17-06..xx-xx-xx..02-13-07..2006-779xxx
38..Burrito.........09-21-06..10-18-06..12-23-06..02-14-07..2006-783xxx
39..Iniibig ko......09-07-06..10-15-06..12-27-06..02-15-07..2006-783xxx
40..Thersch.........09-19-06..10-23-06..12-22-06..02-15-07..2006-783xxx
41..Ken_Maria.......09-18-06..10-10-06..12-26-06..02-15-07..2006-783xxx
42..mydestiny.......09-21-06..10-23-06..xx-xx-xx..02-23-07..2006-783xxx
43..Birdysboy.......09-11-06..10-23-06..10-25-06..02-16-07..2006-786xxx
44..gobdogman.......09-07-06..10-20-06..xx-xx-xx..02-16-07..2006-789xxx
45..Steve-n-Ana.....09-28-06..10-25-06..12-29-06..02-16-07..2006-789xxx
46..jamrok..........09-29-06..10-25-06..xx-xx-xx..11-24-06..2006-789xxx..AO..AR (Cenomar)
47..Erichu..........10-11-06..10-23-06..12-23-06..02-16-07..2006-789xxx
48..Paulily.........09-25-06..10-20-06..12-22-06..02-16-07..2006-792xxx
49..felnfrank.......10-12-06..10-23-06..12-22-06..02-16-07..2006-792xxx
50..bangus delight..10-05-06..10-20-06..12-22-06..02-16-07..2006-792xxx
51..StevenandJinky..10-17-06..11-02-06..xx-xx-xx..02-16-07..2006-793xxx
52..oakwell.........10-16-06..11-06-06..xx-xx-xx..02-20-07..2006-796xxx
53..Mike_and_Jennie.10-05-06..10-30-06..12-21-06..02-20-07..2006-799xxx
54..2Hearts.........10-18-06..11-03-06..xx-xx-xx..02-20-07..2006-800xxx
55..patrick808......10-18-06..10-30-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-800xxx..
56..Joone745........10-20-06..11-01-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-800xxx..
57..kar3n...........10-16-06..11-14-06..12-21-06..02-21-07..2006-805xxx
58..macky...........10-05-06..11-22-06..12-12-06..02-22-07..2006-813xxx

59..Wes.............11-02-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-818xxx
60..49bstreet.......09-29-06..11-21-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-820xxx
61..maylet29........10-27-06..11-21-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-820xxx
62..kismet..........11-02-06..11-20-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-820xxx
63..iya.............11-02-06..xx-xx-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-820xxx
64..Alanlvsjudy.....11-06-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-824xxx
65..mpgirl..........11-21-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-834xxx
66..DeaniWait.......11-28-06..12-19-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-842xxx
67..DaveandFleur....10-17-06..12-19-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-845xxx
68..PatientlyWait...12-04-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-xxxxxx
69..Kayz............12-14-06..12-27-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-854xxx

K3 LIST
01..phirephly.......05-08-06..05-23-06..07-01-06..09-21-06..2006-635xxx..OK..Sep 27/06 days/???
02..K3 IR...........07-25-06..xx-xx-xx..09-20-06..11-13-06..2006-xxxxxx..OK..Nov 20/07 days/San Juan MM
03..cybernutguy.....09-22-06..10-12-06..xx-xx-xx..11-28-06..2006-xxxxxx..OK..Dec 15/17 days/Makati (with AR)
04..shadowladylx....08-02-06..08-14-06..xx-xx-xx..12-05-06..2006-721xxx..OK..Dec 12/07 days/Quezon City
05..Amerikano.......10-03-06..10-19-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-778xxx
06..dj2004..........11-16-06..12-12-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-839xxx

IR-1/CR-1
Name.................NOA2.....CASE CMPLT..PACKET..INTERVIEW...MNL CASE#..STATUS

01..mimendoz0209....01-13-06..04-28-06..08-22-06..10-18-06..2006-xxxxxx..OK..Oct 25/07 days/Davao
02..Biancashey......03-09-06..09-01-06..xx-xx-xx..01-19-07..2006-576xxx
03..JunCel..........05-15-06..08-24-06..12-07-06..01-05-07..2006-646xxx
04..facechelle......05-31-06..09-25-06..xx-xx-xx..01-30-07..2006-659xxx
05..DaveHorton......07-25-06..08-25-06..10-24-06..12-04-06..2006-208xxx..OK
06..Jazzy...........08-03-06..10-17-06..xx-xx-xx..02-08-07..2006-729xxx
07..K3 IR...........09-01-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-xxxxxx
08..w1n78...........09-05-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-764xxx
09..soulm8z0928.....09-06-06..11-16-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-76xxxx
10..M&M.............09-07-06..11-15-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-765xxx
11..Amerikano.......09-13-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-772xxx
12..dims1...........09-20-06..12-01-06..xx-xx-xx..xx-xx-xx..2006-775xxx


You can update me, packet revieved 12/29.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-31 07:37:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Does anyone have the fax number at the USE to request a rescheduled interview?



US Manila Embassy Fax Number
(001-632) 3384129

Thanks for the fax number. Is this the main fax number at the USE? Is there another fax number that goes directly into the K1 department for interview requests? I just want to be sure to fax the letter to the right number with as little chance as possible for it getting "lost in the shuffle".
Thanks,
Rob ->->-> HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL :jest:

On this day in 2007, we will all be with the ones we love.


Rob that is the number they gave me for K1 communications when I called the 888 number. Address your fax to the attention of the Immigrant VISA Branch, US Embassy. Include your case number, her full name and your full name, and sign and date the request letter. I sent them a fax to correct a name spelling error and it worked fine.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-30 10:11:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Here is a story I pulled off Bloomberg this morning about communications to asia. Nothing specific about Phils, but easy to see it will take time for full restore.


If you look at the submarine cable maps you can see that most of the cables from the Phils go north to other countries in Asia, and I suspect that most of them do in fact go to Taiwan.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-30 10:06:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Wow, the lady at 5184 really helped up and was very nice to me even when I was ranting and raving. Maybe I ruined her :whistle:

The lady at x5184 may indeed may be very nice, but don't expect any specific answers to the status of your visa petition. Whenever I would call before the interview, I would get an answer such as: "you petition is in our system, but no updates, call back at the end of the month." And the details were the same for when the visa was "approved" but yet still hung-up at the embassy for 3-weeks.

As far as the $18 number, I'm pretty sure the info on their computers was the same as from x5184 because I never received any more detail then: "your petition is going through the normal process, call back next month." But maybe I don't have a way with twisting info out of people that others do.


The $18 people were more helpful to me. NVC made a spelling error in there info to the Embassy. The x5184 person said don't worry about it, but the $18 person told me how to get it fixed and it worked. For the $18 I also got our interview date on the follow-up call. And, I didn't have to dial 100 times to get through on the $18 call like I did on the x5184 number.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-29 17:15:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Wow, this thread is almost a year old :thumbs:

Ok, thanks my friend. I will call them very soon if we dont get it soon. I thought you needed too call St. Luke's too request packet 4, but sure I can call the USE. Should I call the toll free number (888-877-9888) or the (01163-2-528-6300) number and enter X5184?


I have used both numbers. The toll free number will get you through fast and they are very friendly and helpful, but it will cost you $18 (but you get a free follow-up call). The other number is a regular international toll call with no fee, but it's almost impossible to get an answer and they aren't very friendly.

I'd say spring for the 18 bucks, it's worth it.

Wow, the lady at 5184 really helped up and was very nice to me even when I was ranting and raving. Maybe I ruined her :whistle:


Maybe she only had a few nice things to say that day and you used them all up. :lol:
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-29 16:29:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Ok, thanks my friend. I will call them very soon if we dont get it soon. I thought you needed too call St. Luke's too request packet 4, but sure I can call the USE. Should I call the toll free number (888-877-9888) or the (01163-2-528-6300) number and enter X5184?


I have used both numbers. The toll free number will get you through fast and they are very friendly and helpful, but it will cost you $18 (but you get a free follow-up call). The other number is a regular international toll call with no fee, but it's almost impossible to get an answer and they aren't very friendly.

I'd say spring for the 18 bucks, it's worth it.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-29 15:13:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Quick question, Manila received my packet on Dec. 27th. Is it still possible to track any further activity after that and what is the best way to track it? How long does it usually takes before my fiance & I will receive a letter from them stating that they have my packet and it's in good hands (hopefully :lol: ) .

Thanks


You may receive a letter (sometimes referred to as packet 3) from the Embassy, but many do not. They didn't send my fiancee anything so I emailed them and they replied after a while. Here's the text of the email, which I understand is similar or the sane as what is in the letter if (you get it).

"We received the fiancé(e) visa petition (I-129F) from the State Department's National Visa Center (NVC) on October 17, 2006. No appointment has been scheduled as yet, but we have already included the applicant on the list of qualified applicants awaiting an interview schedule. Because of our heavy volume of fiancé(e) visa applications, the waiting time for a visa interview at present is approximately between 120 - 150 days from receipt of the petition in Manila.

We will inform the applicant of the interview date as soon as it is scheduled. We will mail the applicant an appointment packet with information and instructions to apply for a visa about 30 days before the scheduled interview. We will also send you a copy of the appointment letter.

We want to assure you that while an approved fiancé(e) petition is originally valid for four months from the date of its approval, a consular officer may revalidate it for an additional four months. This revalidation is routine as long as you and the beneficiary remain legally free to marry and continue to intend to do so within 90 days after the beneficiary is admitted into the United States.

A list of immigrant and fiancé(e) visa cases that have been scheduled for an interview is available at our web site at http://philippines.u...v/wwwh3023.html. You or the applicant may check the interview date at this Internet address, where appointments scheduled for the current month and the following month are listed according to case numbers. The list is updated in the middle of each month.

If the applicant would like to inquire further about the status of the visa case, she may contact the Embassy's Visa Call Center at telephone 1-909-101-7878. This number is for subscribers of PLDT and Smart telephone touchtone landlines with national and international distance dialing features (NDD or IDD access). Callers in the USA can contact the Call Center at 1-888-877-9888. The Call Center is open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Manila time). There is a fee assessed to callers by the Call Center for its services"

Edited by garya505, 29 December 2006 - 02:00 PM.

garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-29 13:59:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Please update my timeline, i got my packet 4 today!!! Dec 29

tanx & God bless
arch & cel


Not sure why some of these packets take so long to deliver. :help:



Don't worry garya505 maybe... :thumbs: hopefully your the next!!!!

God bless!
arch & cel


Funny you should say that, I just got a txt msg from my fiancee. :lol:

Please update my timeline, received packet 4 today, Dec 29.



Not fair! :crying: I hope we will get ours soon. :unsure: Question is what is we dont get it soon, less that a month away too her medical exam. We need too call St. Lukes at this time or a little longer? Also it it best that i call them or ask her too call them?

Thanks and happy new year! God bless you all!


You will probably get it soon, but if you don't, you can call the US Embassy and request a packet be sent to St. Luke's. You can get in at St. Luke's with just the NOA2 (I-797C Notice of Approval) and printout from the Embassy VISA Interview Appointment website. We were ready to do that if we didn't get the appointment letter in time. We are doing the medical exam early, which I strongly recommend if you can do it.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-29 11:34:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Please update my timeline, i got my packet 4 today!!! Dec 29

tanx & God bless
arch & cel


Not sure why some of these packets take so long to deliver. :help:



Don't worry garya505 maybe... :thumbs: hopefully your the next!!!!

God bless!
arch & cel


Funny you should say that, I just got a txt msg from my fiancee. :lol:

Please update my timeline, received packet 4 today, Dec 29.

Edited by garya505, 29 December 2006 - 02:05 AM.

garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-29 02:04:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Please update my timeline, i got my packet 4 today!!! Dec 29

tanx & God bless
arch & cel


Not sure why some of these packets take so long to deliver. :help:
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-29 01:45:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Hi PW,

Please update my timeline, i got my packet 4 today Dec 29. thank you so much.


Hmmm, our interview is Feb 13 and we're still waiting for the packet. :help:
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-28 22:27:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

A friendly advice, My tip to pass on: If you have the time and the money, do what we did and have a private medical exam done a few months before the St. Luke's medical exam. That way you are sure and your SO will feel more comfortable and confident.


Hey, I sent my fiancee for a checkup and she went to an OB-GYN! Is this a hint? :blush:

Edited by garya505, 28 December 2006 - 01:27 AM.

garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-28 01:26:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

that s a good news rob bout her health...though she will have a new appointment, ull just to wait more and be patient :) uve been so patient :whistle:

im looking for hotels now near the embassy, my fiance booked my flights already. he is looking for a place for me too where i could stay near DFA and St. Luke...ill have my passport renewed then medical exam will follow...

Is CFO office just around the area?ill attend the seminar first before the renewal.

any suggestions for places to stay?

thanks


My fiancee's cousin stayed at this place and my fiance will probably stay there for her CFO and medical exam. It is walking distance to St. Luke's.

Cherry Blossoms Hotel
(ATM nearby, Robinson’s Mall nearby)
550 J. Bocobo Street, Ermita, Manila
Tel. (632) 524-7631 or 524-7636
E-mail: blossoms@i-manila.com
Manager: RODNEY C. ROBOSA
Premium: P1250
Superior: P1673
Deluxe: P1855
2 level Suite: P1915
Suite: P3025
Breakfast included

I have compiled a list of hotels in the area if anyone wants to see it.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-27 21:16:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

hey fellow philippine vj'ers, just thot i'd pass this along...if ur having trouble contacting your loved one/family/frenz n d philippines, they are having sum kind of nationwide telecommunications problem right now, including no internet service. from reading n another post it appears 2 b affecting other areas n asia, maybe due 2 the earthquake, or maybe some computer virus that spread thru all the telecom providers. not sure the cause, but there is a problem of some sort.


Yes, it's bad. Apparently some phone cables were cut when the earthquake hit off the coast of Taiwan. The news said this could take 2 or 3 weeks to fix. :help:

my wife just called me, she said d latest info there is it wil take abt 5 days 2 repair. lets hope 4 a speedy fix

I did notice an unusual number of disconnects last night when I was online with Mira. She has Bayantel DSL. The phone line was bad too. But at least land line, mobile and internet were working even if sparodic in Butuan City region.


According to the news reports, about half the communications capacity has been lost and it could take 2 to 3 weeks to fix it. :clock:
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-27 15:48:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

hey fellow philippine vj'ers, just thot i'd pass this along...if ur having trouble contacting your loved one/family/frenz n d philippines, they are having sum kind of nationwide telecommunications problem right now, including no internet service. from reading n another post it appears 2 b affecting other areas n asia, maybe due 2 the earthquake, or maybe some computer virus that spread thru all the telecom providers. not sure the cause, but there is a problem of some sort.


Yes, it's bad. Apparently some phone cables were cut when the earthquake hit off the coast of Taiwan. The news said this could take 2 or 3 weeks to fix. :help:

my wife just called me, she said d latest info there is it wil take abt 5 days 2 repair. lets hope 4 a speedy fix


I hope so. I'm trying to set up my fiancee's trip for her medical exam in about 10 days from now. It's tough to do that without phone calls.




oakwell, gobdogman, & robhankins - I totally forgot about the misprint in the packet 4 information concerning the validation of payment, but I had mentioned it to PW a few months ago. There was another problem that I had with the packet 4 information but I'll have to review it again to see if it pops out to me...

Cheers!!!

Ahmari & Jhen


You mean, see if it jumps up and bites you in the azz? :lol:
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-27 15:34:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

hey fellow philippine vj'ers, just thot i'd pass this along...if ur having trouble contacting your loved one/family/frenz n d philippines, they are having sum kind of nationwide telecommunications problem right now, including no internet service. from reading n another post it appears 2 b affecting other areas n asia, maybe due 2 the earthquake, or maybe some computer virus that spread thru all the telecom providers. not sure the cause, but there is a problem of some sort.


Yes, it's bad. Apparently some phone cables were cut when the earthquake hit off the coast of Taiwan. The news said this could take 2 or 3 weeks to fix. :help:
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-27 12:02:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Are you saying that the DS 156 must be completed on line? my fianceee in the Philippines just received her packet 4 information, which includes the DS 156 156k and 157 so are you saying that she still needs to fill out the 156 on the website. Also do you know which form is required when she goes to the bank to pay her $100 consular fee. thanks for your help
steve

Hey Steve...

I pray that you and yours have a safe and joyful holiday season...

Q: "Are you saying that the DS 156 must be completed on line? ...so are you saying that she still needs to fill out the 156 on the website."

A: Yes! The DS-156 must be completed online to be assigned a specific barcode number, which is shown on page 1 and page 3. Even though the process has changed, the Embassy still sends out the obsolete DS-156 form, which does NOT have the barcodes one it. That is partially why the DS-156 must now be completed online (the other reason is for paper reduction but they continue to send out an obsolete DS-156 form wasting more paper... Go figure... LOL!). The Manilla Embassy has also threatened to reschedule the interview appointment if the beneficiary shows up without a completed online DS-156 form that has the barcodes on it.

Q: "Also do you know which form is required when she goes to the bank to pay her $100 consular fee?"

A: The DS-157 is the form that is validated by the bank when you pay the visa application fee. The bank has the form but you can complete the form, take it to the bank, and request that they validate your form. Or you can take the blank form the bank validates and gives to you (however they have an older version, but it looks exactly like the one issued to your fiancee)...

How this helps...

Cheers!!!

Ahmari & Jhen

p.s. Just and FYI - You will need two (2) copies of the DS-156 and DS-157... and only one (1) copy of the DS-156K for the interview.

I'm a little confused here. Has the instructions in the packet changed? The pdf packet file on VJ clearly indicates in item 1. The DS-156 is the form that the bank validates your payment on. Is this now incorrect? Also it is advisable to obtain a seperate receipt from the bank for your own records.


Yes, I saw that too. We're not sure why, maybe it's old info. The bank will validate the DS-157.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-26 17:43:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

I know I have seen a list of hotels close to the USE, but I can't find it now that I need it. Can anyone please give me a nice safe hotel very close to the USE? I need it ASAP (tonight). Thanks.


I think Bayview is right across street from USE.


Yes it is but I have heard that it's overpriced and not the best quality. I think a lot of people just pick it because it's right across the street.

Edited by garya505, 26 December 2006 - 03:27 PM.

garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-26 15:27:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

I know I have seen a list of hotels close to the USE, but I can't find it now that I need it. Can anyone please give me a nice safe hotel very close to the USE? I need it ASAP (tonight). Thanks.


St. Lukes is near the USE right? I'm looking for a hotel near St. Lukes for the week Jan 8-12. A friend recommended Cherry Blossoms Hotel but I don't know anything about it and this particular friend tends to be a little flakey so I don't know ... :unsure:

Edited by garya505, 26 December 2006 - 02:53 PM.

garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-26 14:53:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

There are some rumors that the bank may not agree to validate your filled-up DS157 form and may insist on giving you a blank validated DS157 form. Not sure if this is all BPI branches or just some, or why they might be doing this.

This was true in our case, the bank insisted on validating their blank copy at the bank.


Which bank and location was it?

There are some rumors that the bank may not agree to validate your filled-up DS157 form and may insist on giving you a blank validated DS157 form. Not sure if this is all BPI branches or just some, or why they might be doing this.

Very true! It depends on the bank, the teller, and/or the manager on duty. In our case, the BPI branch in Calamba would NOT validate our completed DS-157, but I have read cases where BPI branches have validated the beneficiaries DS-157 form. There is no consistency in the cooperation of the bank whether they are willing to validate your completed form verses what they have in house. Please call the bank in which you want to pay your visa application fee to verify if they are willing to validate your completed DS-157 form. Cheers!!!


Where the heck is Calamba?
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-26 13:13:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview
There are some rumors that the bank may not agree to validate your filled-up DS157 form and may insist on giving you a blank validated DS157 form. Not sure if this is all BPI branches or just some, or why they might be doing this.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-26 12:48:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

This seems odd to me because St.lukes doesn't cancel interviews. They just work the Embassy, they may tell them that the medical wasn't complete or whatever. The dealing of the interview date is done with the embassy and should be handled by the petitioner calling the Embassy.


I am considering letting Lilia go forward and attend the interview on the 28th, even though her medical is not yet cleared. I am thinking that the case of a quick rescheduling might be better if she talks to the CO in person and explains that she still has some tests to clear at St. Luke's. Am I dreaming to think they might just tell her to come back as soon as her medical is clear?

I can't bear the thought of getting a new date 3 months away over the phone and then appealing for an expedited interview through channels. Can anyone tell me the flaw of sending her ahead on the 28th to see the CO in person?

Thanks and Merry Christmas to all, thanks too for the great help in a difficult and awkward time.
Rob

Rob, first of all our hearts go out to you both for what happenned. I would think that whatever was said at Lilia's medical meant they would forward their results to the embassy, which basically means no medical papers no interview. I concur with others, that the best thing to do at this stage is communicate with the visa consular section. Both Mira and I discussed your situation and we decided that under the circumstances that Lilia reported it would be advisable to get a pre St Lukes medical checkup which she will do the 1st week of January. Her St Lukes is Feb 13th. Good luck to you and Lilia and our prayers are with you.


I agree also, but i also agree that you should call them too comfirm that your interview has been cancelled and ask if they will give you a new date. Good luck and god bless you both!


I would just call the Embassy and ask if they can confirm the the interview date as you know it. Then if they say it's cancelled you could ask the new date?
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-25 00:25:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Hi there,
What's the fastest, cheapest and safest way to send money to the Philippines? any recommendations would be appreciated.Hope to get your reply right away.Thanks and Merry christmas everyone!!!!!!


Larry


You can get cheap and you can get fast, but you can't get both cheap and fast from the same service.

I use www.xoom.com to transfer money directly into my fiancee's bank account. She has an ATM card and just gets what she needs. The fees aren't too bad.

The fastest is still Western Union, but also the most expensive.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-24 23:23:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

PLEASE HELP ANYONE!

I have a specific question regarding Jinky's 5 yr. old son, Job. She was never married to his father, but the father is named on Job's Birth Certificate.

Will the Philippine Government allow Jinky to bring Job to the USA without the father's permission? (He has no legal custody of the child). The father is now living here in the states (Maryland) although he is a Filipino National and Jinky knows he'd sign a paper giving permission, but I just want to find out if his permission is required and if so, in what form? A notarized paper?

Thank you,

Steven :star:


I have a friend in the Phils in a similar situation and she thinks that she will need the father's permission.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-23 02:35:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

I think DHL usually delivers the packets. they text Yazi asking her to pick it up at the local office, saying they didn't have correct address. when she picked it up , it had her correct address.
was her current cell # on her G-325A?


Yes.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-23 02:16:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

I had Lilia see a qualified doctor this morning in Makati Medical Center. He said she has mild bronchitis. He gave her a prescription for cephalexin and a decongestant. No signs of TB. He will check her again prior to her return trip to St. Lukes.

Rather than a nurse arbitrarily "kill" our interview and have Lilia return Jan 9, 10 & 11 for more tests, it would have been so easy to let her pay for a doctor in St. Lukes to see her to clear the medical. What a buch of horse$hi^.

Just a note for those of you who have medicals/interviews coming, don't go to St. Lukes with any congestion and cough. It is lethal to the interview. Plan your medical early and make sure your loved one is healthy prior to going. If by chance they (God forbid) should actually have TB, it can't be covered up by antibiotics, allergy medications etc.


Nice work Rob. :thumbs:

I gave my fiancee a head's up that if she has a cold or something we can portpone the medical rather than risk having the interview canceled.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-22 23:43:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Can you update us? Luz got her Packet 4 today 12-22-2006.
Also, what is the deal with the typo's? The NVC mispelled my middle name and got Luz's birthdate wrong! I had Luz fax them our BC to fix that and now it seems they got her address wrong! I just checked my copies of the I-129F and G325A's and it is correct there!


Ya, NVC spelled Florenda's name wrong too. I faxed her BC to the USE to get them to correct it. The USE person said NVC makes a lot of mistakes like that.

The package was sent via DHL? Our interview is 2/13 and so far no packet in Cagayan de Oro. :crying:

Edited by garya505, 22 December 2006 - 11:38 PM.

garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-22 23:36:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Hey guys if any of u are lookin for a good hotel I stay at the Pearl Garden in Ermita, by Adriatico street I think. They have a nice breakfast buffet everyday, sometimes the rice is a little greasy but coffee really good, its across street from beauty salon too! I think they have discount for locals if you ask.....if your fiancee is gonna stay there. Clean nice rooms, good service no rigamaroo.......


No rigamaroo, ha that's cute!

Is it near St. Luke's? How much is it? I don't mind but my fiancee will complain if the hotel costs too much.

I'm looking for good hotels near St. Luke's. Anybody have a favorite?

Edited by garya505, 22 December 2006 - 05:26 PM.

garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-22 17:25:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

When I'm there I use one of those security wallet thingies that tucks under my thw waistband in my pants. The money gets a little sweaty but I still have it. :lol:



Chris (my fiance) did the same when he got here in Philippines and I was laughing hard. Filipino friends in Hawaii advise him not to wear any jewelry and stuff. Now what's funny is that he complain a lot because he found it hard everytime he would get something from his secret thingy tied on his legs. He finally took it off right at the middle of the crowd :lol: :lol: :lol:


I just put most of my money in the secret wallet and only what I needed for the day in my front pants pockets (some in each pocket).

No wallet in my back pocket at all. :no:
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-22 15:38:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

I am totally freaked out now. I am going to SLEC tomorrow with my son but I have a slight cough. I have a chronic bronchial asthma since childhood and I am worried that they are going to screw us too. Please pray for us. Thank you so much and may you all have a fantabulous christmas.

Zane


If the mention the cough maybe you could tell them you have asthma and that's the reason for the cough.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-22 15:35:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

How was it delivered, by snail mail, FedEx, or DHL?


DHL :)


Ah that's almost a month from the time USE recieved it until DHL delivered it!
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-22 15:30:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

Hi guys, Pls update my Timeline. Packet 4 received today, Dec. 22. Thanks

Merry Christmas everyone! :)


How was it delivered, by snail mail, FedEx, or DHL?
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-22 01:14:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

I would send her a little extra for taxi money, Tita was robbed on a Jeepney in November.

I am glad you said that. She is probably carrying $400 - $600 in her wallet. I will tell her to leave most of it at home. I forget she is not in Dallas yet.


Jewelry too, watches, rings, necklaces, even a rosary isn't safe. Purses are easy targets. Be careful.


Yes definitely she should remove jewelry. Fely goes to Manila often and even takes off her wedding ring when she is there. She won't let me carry my money when I'm there.


When I'm there I use one of those security wallet thingies that tucks under my thw waistband in my pants. The money gets a little sweaty but I still have it. :lol:
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-21 16:27:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

I would send her a little extra for taxi money, Tita was robbed on a Jeepney in November.

I am glad you said that. She is probably carrying $400 - $600 in her wallet. I will tell her to leave most of it at home. I forget she is not in Dallas yet.


I was worried about that too. I'm recommending daily ATM withdraws and paying the hotel each day.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-21 16:25:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

My fiancee has a friday medical date so does that mean she will have to go back on the following monday for everything ?
I dont think she will need any vaccianations because she has already been getting those from her dr. when she first found out she was pregnant.
Also if there are any vaccinations she didnt get and she chooses to get them here in the states will she still have to go back the next day?


Yes she will have to go back on Monday if she wants the vaccinations. Vaccinations from anywhere in the Philippines other than St. Lukes will not be recognized by US immigration.

They will give her a pregnancy test. They will skip the MMR and maybe some others if she is pregnant. The MMR should not be given in the first trimester.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-21 11:35:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

You may also print out your medical and interview schedule from the website and show that to the guard.

For contents of packet 4, you can always download all of them from uling's signature. Receiving packet 4 is not really a big deal since there are other ways to get them.


Ya I got the forms, it's the interview letter that we will be missing if we don't get the packet. I'll make sure we have the NOA2 and website print out.


Maricel is going to have her St. Luke's Medical Exam on Jan 8th (a bit more than 1 month early). I called USE and they agreed to send her packet 4 directly over to St. Luke's so her USE appointment letter is waiting for her to pick up at St. Luke's.

The woman at USE said Packet 4 would be at St. Luke's the next day. I intend to call St. Luke's on Jan 4 to make sure St. Luke's still has it. As a backup, Maricel is taking her NOA2, passport photos, MNL case number, and passport which should be enough to get the medical completed from what I understand.


So I'm wondering what would happen if she got there and the packet wasn't there? Will they let her take the exam?
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-20 22:49:00
US Embassy and Consulate DiscussionManila Embassy Interview

You may also print out your medical and interview schedule from the website and show that to the guard.

For contents of packet 4, you can always download all of them from uling's signature. Receiving packet 4 is not really a big deal since there are other ways to get them.


Ya I got the forms, it's the interview letter that we will be missing if we don't get the packet. I'll make sure we have the NOA2 and website print out.
garya505Not TellingPhilippines2006-12-20 22:09:00