The Philippine Embassy in Madrid, Spain, has officially introduced the Tarjeta Consular or Consular Card, a new identification document replacing the current “Yellow Card.”
According to Consul Eric Valenzuela, the Consular Card offers significant benefits to Filipinos in Spain. “First of all, it makes it easier for the Embassy to contact you during emergencies,” he explained. “In case of disasters or conflicts approaching Spain, we’ll be able to reach you more efficiently.”
The Tarjeta Consular serves as an official ID recognized by Spanish authorities for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Unlike its predecessor, it is more secure, durable, and no longer printed on paper. Ambassador Philippe Lhuillier highlighted that the card eliminates the need to carry a passport and provides assurance to employers of a holder’s legal status in the country.
Additionally, the Tarjeta Consular is accepted by law enforcement as a valid form of identification, making interactions with authorities smoother. It also helps the Embassy report accurate data to Congress about the Filipino population in Spain.
The launch coincided with the celebration of the OFW Congress in Madrid, a biennial event recognizing individuals and organizations for their volunteerism and service to the Filipino community. Representatives from the Migrant Workers’ Office (MWO), Social Security System (SSS), Pag-IBIG, and other consular services attended, offering assistance to Filipinos who face challenges visiting the Embassy during regular working hours.
Workshops on financial management, business creation, and technological advancements were also held. Dezza Cabarles, an OFW attendee, shared her appreciation, saying, “We learned a lot, especially about financial literacy.” Another participant, Rita Dela Tore, emphasized how the event helped her plan for the future, saying, “It’s another step towards ensuring I won’t depend on family as I grow older.”
Bataan Representative Geraldine Roman, who also attended, highlighted the unique challenges faced by OFWs. “The mere fact that they’re in another country and want to contribute to our system requires special attention,” she said, stressing the importance of legislation to address their needs.
The OFW Congress, held every two years, continues to serve as a platform for empowering and supporting the Filipino community in Spain.
