DISCLAIMER: ADS IN THIS PUBLICATION ARE PUBLISHED AS A SERVICE TO OUR READERS… THEIR PUBLICATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AIR FORCE OR DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE ENDORSEMENT OF THE PRODUCTS OR SERVICE...

RETIREE APPRECIATION DAY: EVERYDAY IS RETIREE APPRECIATION DAY AT OUR OFFICE... OUR OFFICIAL RETIREE APPRECIATIONS DAYS ARE HELD DURING THE MONTHS OF JAN, APR, JUL AND OCT OF EACH YEAR. SPECIFIC DATES ARE LISTED IN THE U.S. EMBASSY OUTREACH SECTION...

HANDY WEB SITES:

ACLU	www.aclu.org
AFPC	www.afpc.randolph.af.mil
AFVCLUB  DISCOUNT VACATIONS	AFVCLUB.com
AIR FORCE RESERVE POINT CREDITS	www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/vs/
AMERICAN BUSINESS CENTER	www.business-in-asia.com/philippines.html
AMERICAN LEGION	www.philampost123.org
AMERICAN RED CROSS	www.redcross.org
ARMED FORCES RETIREMENT HOME	www.afrh.com
AT & T DIRECT ACCESS NUMBERS	http://www.business.att.com/hilippines.html
13th AF/JUNGLE AIR FORCE	www.andersen.af.mil/13th_AF/default.html
15 TO 20 YEARS OF SERVICE DATA	www.dmdc.osd.mil/tera/owa/ShowPage?p=index
BALIKBAYAN BOX SHIPMENTS	www.forexworld.com
BALIKBAYAN BOX (MANILA)	www.manilaforwarder.com
BLUE BOOK	www.blue-book.ph/com
BLUE CROSS	www.bluecross.com.ph
BUREAU OF CITIZENSHIP & IMMIGRATION SERVICES	http://uscis.gov
CASHING SAVINGS BONDS, PI	www.savingsbonds.gov/sav/sbfaqcs2.htm#BankList
CDC (CLARK)	www.clark.com.ph
CIVIL AIR PATROL	http://www.cap.gov
CITIZEN CORPS	http://www.citizencorps.gov
DAV,CHAPTER 3	www.dav3philippines.org
DEERS CHANGE OF ADDRESS/READOUT	https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect
DFAS CLEVELAND	https://mypay.dfas.mil/mypay.asp
DELBROS	https://www.delbros.com
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY	https://www.dhs.gov.dhspublic/
DRUG SEARCH DESCRIPTION	https://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/finas.htm
EXPAT NEWS	www.whatson.expat.com.ph
FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY	https://www.fema.gov
FEDERAL JOB SEARCH	https://cgi.hrsjobs.com/foxweb.exe/hrsaffil?FEDWEEK
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACTS	https://www.usdoj.gov/oip/foiacontacts.htm
HEARING AID PROGRAM	www.militaryaudiology.org/links.html
HOMELAND SECURITY (INS)	https://uscis.gov
HOSPITAL LIVING QUARTERS	www.fisherhouse.org
HOTELS IN ANGELES CITY	http://www.balibago.com/where_to_stay.html
HOTELS IN THE PHILIPPINES	http://www.asiahotels.com/hl/philippines.asp
INFORMATIVE LINKS (CLICK LINKS)	www.vfwpost2485.com
IRS	www.irs.gov
JOBS	http://amchamphilippines.com
MARGARITA VILLE	www.theville.com
MILITARY HOTELS:  HALE KOA, HAWAII DRAGON HILL, KOREA	www.halekoa.com www.armymwr.com
MILITARY NEWS *AIR FORCE AFTERBURNER *ARMY ECHOES *CG EVENING COLORS *NAVY SHIFT COLORS *USMC SEMPER FIDELIS	www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/afretire/#Afterburner www.odcsper.army.mil/retire www.uscg.mil/hq/hrsic/PRC.htm#RETNEWS www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/reference/publication/shiftcolors/Pages/default.aspx www.usmc.mil
MILITARY ORDER PURPLE HEART FOUNDATION	www.purpleheartfoundation.org
MILITARY PERSONNEL RECORDS	www.archives.gov/facilities/mo/st_louis.html https://vetrecs.archives.gov
MARINE SCHOLARSHIPS (KIA)	www.marine-scholars.org
MY HEALTH VET (INTERACTIVE)	www.myhealth.va.gov
NATIONAL VISA CENTER	http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrations/types/types_1309.html
NATIONWIDE GRAVESITE LOCATOR	www.cem.va.gov
OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT	www.opm.gov
ORGANIZATIONS	http://www.vfwpost2485.com  (CLICK INFORMATIVE LINKS) www.philampost123.org
PEOPLE SEARCH ENGINE	www.people.yahoo.com
PHARMACY SEARCH TOOL	www.tricare.osd.mil/pharmacy/retailphform.cfm
PHILIPPINE ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS	https://www.pareb.com.ph/about_memberboards.htm
PHILIPPINE BUREAU OF CUSTOMS	www.customs.gov.ph
PHILIPPINE CONSULATE	www.philcongenla.org
PINOY DISHES	www.pinoycook.net
PHILIPPINE  GOLF COURSE	http://www.worldgolf.com/courses/philgcs.html
PHILIPPINE IMMIGRATION	www.immigration.gov.ph
PHILIPPINE RETIREMENT AUTHORITY (PRA)	http://www.plra.gov.ph/main
PHILIPPINE NEWSPAPERS	www.inq7.net www.mb.com.ph www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga
PHILIPPINE VITAL STATISTIC (NSO)	www.e-census.com.ph
ROYAL MOVING STORAGE ROYAL CARGO	www.royalcargo.com
SPACE A	TEL # (6345) 499-7279
SCHOOLS	www.hau.edu.ph www.auf.edu.ph
SSA	www.ssa.gov
SGLI/VGLI INSURANCE	www.insurance.va.gov/sgliSite/handbook/handbook.htm
STAR AND STRIPES	http://www.stripes.com/section.asp?section=104
TRICARE	www.tricare.osd.af.mil
TRICARE CLAIM PROBLEMS ON-LINE	www.tricare4u.com
TRICARE PROVIDER FOR THE PI	http://www.tricare.mil/tma/pacific/pacificCertifiedProviders.aspx
TRICARE PRIME ENROLLMENT	http://www.tricare.mil/enrollment/index.cfm
TYPHOON UPDATE (PI)	www.typhoon2000.ph
UNITED TOURIST PROMOTIONS	www.ezmap.com.ph
U.S. CREDIT BUREAUS	www.equifax.com , www.experian.com & www.tuc.com
U.S. CONGRESSIONAL E-MAIL DIRECTORY	www.webslingerz.com/jhoffman/congress-email.html
U.S. EMBASSY, MANILA	http://manila.usembassy.gov
U.S. EMBASSY ON-LINE REGISTRATION	https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/
U.S. NONIMMIGRANT VISA ELECTRONIC FORMS	http://evisaforms.state.gov
USAF FORMS & PUBLICATIONS	http://www.e-publishing.af.mil
U.S. VITAL STATISTICS RECORDS	http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/w2w.htm
VA	www.va.gov
VA APPPROVED SCHOOLS	http://manila.usembassy.gov/us-agencies2/veteransaffairs.html
VFW	www.vfwpost2485.com
VA INSURANCE SGLI ON-LINE	www.insurance.va.gov
VA INSPECTOR GENERAL OFFICE OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS	(VAOIG.hotline@forum.va.gov) www.va.gov/customer/conaff.asp
VA NEWS	www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/opalist.listserv.cfm
VA REFILLS ONLINE	www.myhealth.va.gov
VETERANS BENEFITS WEBSITE	www.govbenefits.gov
VA INQUIRY ROUTING & INFO SYSTEM	http://iris.va.gov
WAGNER H.S. ALUMNI	www.whoa.org

QUICK REF TELEPHONE/FAX NUMBERS
 

AMERICAN LEGION POST 123	(045) 625-5584
AMERICAN LEGION POST 10	(045) 322-1950
AMERICAN LEGION SUBIC	047) 222-2074
DAV, ANGELES CITY	(045) 892-6374
DEERS CONFIRMATION	001-800-538--9552
DFAS FOR MILITARY RETIREES	001-800-321-1080/001-216-522-5955  FAX 001-800-469-6559
DFAS FOR ANNUITANT PAY	001-800-321-1080/001-216-522-5955  FAX 001-800-982-8459
FPO MAILROOM	(045) 892-0817/0927-708-1944 CALLS ONLY
FPO MAILROOM (VFW)	0915 965 0847 CALLS ONLY
JUSMAG ID CARD/DEERS SECTION, U.S. EMBASSY	(02) 301- 2493 / 2494
PASSPORT RENEWAL BY COURIER	(02) 879-4747
PI IMMIGRATIONS, CLARK  (NO SHORTS ALLOWED)	(045) 499-1246/892-6110         OFFICE HRS 0700-1630 M-F…
PI IMMIGRATIONS, MANILA  (NO SHORTS ALLOWED)	(02) 527-3260/3248
SPACE A, CLARK FIELD	(6345) 499 7279/CP (63) 920 970 5030
SOCIAL SECURITY	FAX (02) 708 9723/708 9714
TRICARE CLAIMS/VIA FAX	FAX 1-608-301-2251 FOLLOW UP 1-608-301-2250
VA FAX, REGIONAL OFFICE	FAX (02) 550-3945
VA SERVICE OFFICER, MANILA	(02) 528-2500     OR TOLL FREE        1-800-1888- 5252
VA TEL REGIONAL OFFICE	(02) 550-3888
VFW VA REP	(045) 892-2407
VFW POST 2485	(045) 892-7147
VA CLINIC, MANILA	(02) 318-8387   PHARMACY (02) 318-8311  FAX  (02) 310-5957 OR TOLL FREE 1-800-1888-  8782
VA PHARMACY AUTO REFILLS	(02) 556-VETS (8387)
U.S. EMBASSY, MANILA, SWITCHBOARD	(02) 301-2000
FUNERAL HOMES ANGELES CITY:
ANGELINA	(045) 322-4920/888-9469
INDIONGCO	(045) 888-0750 /322 8541
LA PIETA	(045) 888-0465/8555
ANGELES INT’L TRAVEL AGENCY	(045) 322-5929/888-2175
SWAGMAN	(045) 892-0378

DFAS SSN REQUIREMENTS FOR ANNUITANTS: 

WIDOWS RECEIVING REQUEST FOR COPIES OF THEIR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER (SSN) OR INDIVIDUAL TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER  (ITIN), MUST COMPLY OR BENEFITS WILL BE DISCONTINUED.. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A SSN OR ITIN, PLEASE COME BY THE RAO FOR ASSISTANCE ...

TRICARE APPROVED HOSPITALS/PHYSICIANS:  WE ARE WORKING WITH GLOBAL 24/TRICARE ON A REGULAR BASIS AND USUALLY HAVE  A TELECONFERENCE MONTHLY TO RESOLVE PROBLEMS. GLOBAL 24 HAS BEEN VERY PROMPT IN REPLYING TO WAIVERS AND SPECIAL NEEDS; HOWEVER, IF YOU ENCOUNTER ANY TRICARE PROBLEMS YOU CANNOT RESOLVE WITH GLOBAL 24, PLEASE CONTACT ME FOR ASSISTANCE... THE TRICARE DEMONSTRATION PROJECT IS THE BEST OPPORTUNITY WE WILL HAVE RESOLVE OUR MEDICAL SUPPORT PROBLEMS IN THE PHILIPPINES AND IF SOMETHING IS NOT WORKING, WE NEED TO KNOW... 

OBTAINING COPIES OF MILITARY RECORDS: AIRMEN WHO RETIRED ON OR AFTER OCT. 1, 2004 CAN REQUEST COPIES OF RECORDS SUCH AS A DD FORM 214 (CERTIFICATE OF RELEASE OR DISCHARGE FROM ACTIVE DUTY), PERFORMANCE REPORTS AND OTHER INFORMATION BY WRITING TO AFPC/DPSIRP,550 C St. WEST, SUITE 19, RANDOLPH AFB TX, 78150 OR FAXING TO 210 565-4021. YOU NEED TO SEND COMPLETED STANDARD FORM 180, REQUEST PERTAINING TO MILITARY RECORDS, OR A LETTER THAT INCLUDES NAME, FULL SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER, CONTACT INFORMATION, SPECIFIC RECORD REQUESTED, AND A SIGNATURE. THOSE REQUESTING A DECEASED RELATIVE’S RECORD NEED TO PROVIDE THE ABOVE INFORMATION, PLUS THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO THE FORMER AIRMAN SO NEXT-OF-KIN RELATIONSHIP CAN BE VERIFIED. PROOF OF DEATH MUST ALSO BE FURNISHED. VETERANS WHO RETIRED BEFORE OCT. 1, 2004 SHOULD VISIT THE NATIONAL PERSONNEL RECORDS CENTER WEBSITE AT www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records. LOCATED IN ST. LOUIS, THE NPRC IS ONE OF THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION’S LARGEST OPERATIONS. A FIRE AT THE NPRC IN 1973, DESTROYED ABOUT 80 PERCENT OF THE RECORDS FOR ARMY PERSONNEL DISCHARGE BETWEEN NOV.1, 1912, AND JAN.1, 1960. ABOUT 75 PERCENT OF THE RECORDS FOR AIR FORCE PERSONNEL WITH SURNAMES FROM “HUBBARD” THROUGH “Z” DISCHARGE BETWEEN SEPT, 25 1947 AND JAN.1, 1964 WERE ALSO DESTROYED. MANY RECORDS OF VETERANS AFFECTED BY THE FIRE HAVE BEEN SUFFICIENTLY RECONSTRUCTED TO MEET VA CLAIMS ELEGIBILITY, OFTEN HELPED BY DUPLICATE INFORMATION ALREADY ON FILE WITH VA. ALSO, PERSONAL RECORDS MAINTAINED BY VETERANS HAVE PROVED USEFUL. THOSE REQUESTING THE RECORD OF A DECEASED RELATIVE WHO RETIRED BEFORE OCT.1, 2004 MAY ALSO USE THE NPRC WEBSITE. NPRC RECEIVES APPROXIMATELY 4,000 TO 5,000 REQUESTS PER DAY. FOLLOW-UP REQUESTS SHOULD NOT BE SENT BEFORE 90 DAYS HAVE ELAPSED TO AVOID FUTHER DELAYS. VETERANS WHO RETIRED AFTER OCT.1, 2004 CAN ACCESS CERTAIN RECORDS ONLINE BY REGISTERING ON VA’S www.eBenefits.va.gov. MEDICAL AND DENTAL RECORDS FOR AIRMEN WHO RETIRED BEFORE MAY 1994 ARE STORED PERMANENTLY AT NPRC. FOR INFORMATION ON MEDICAL AND DENTAL RECORDS OF THOSE WHO RETIRED OR SEPARATED AFTER MY 1994, CALL VA’S RECORDS CENTER AT 888 533-4558.  SOURCE 11^TH WING RAO        

CORRECT FPO ADDRESS:

REF WEB http://www.tricare-overseas.com/Beneficiary_PhilippineDemonstrarion_home.html … THIS NEW PROGRAM WILL KICK OFF JAN. 01, 2013 FOR ANGELES CITY, METRO MANILA AND OLONGAPO CITY (PHASE 1) AND MANDITORY FOR TRICARE MEMBERS WHO LIVE WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS OF SAID CITIES UNLESS YOU HAVE A WAIVER . OTHER LOCATION WILL CONTINUE WITH THE SAME TRICARE CERTIFIED LIST: HOWEVER, THEY WILL ALSO HAVE THE OPTION OF USING THE APPROVED TRICARE DEMONSTRATION PROJECT IN CITIES LISTED ABOVE. NOTE: WHEN USING PROVIDERS IN A TRICARE DEMONTRATION AREA, YOU ARE ALLOWED TO USE ONLY TRICARE DEMONSTRATION APPROVED PROVIDERS… APPROVED HOSPITALS FOR ANGELES CITY ARE AUF MEDICAL CENTER AND SACRED HEART MEDICAL CENTER… HOPE TO ADD MORE HOSPITALS IN THE NEAR FUTURE....... BASIC USE POLICY IS FOR APPROVED HOSPITALS TO FILE CLAIMS FOR ALL INPATIENT MEDICAL CARE AND PAY YOUR 25% COST SHARE TO THE HOSPITAL… FOR OUTPATIENT SERVICES, THE APPROVED HOSPITAL WILL SUBMIT CLAIMS FOR ALL MEDICAL SERVICES EXCEPT PHARMACY AND YOU PAY YOUR 25% COST SHARE AFTER THE DEDUCTIBLE IS MET. DEDUCTIBLE IS $150. PER PERSON OR $300. PER FAMILY DURING THE FISCAL YEAR BETWEEN OCT. 01 AND 30 SEPT. .. FOR PHARMACY, YOU MUST USE A TRICARE CERTIFIED PHARMACY ( MERCURY, GENERIC, ECT ) AND SUBMIT YOUR OWN CLAIM: REF WEB www.tricare.mil/tma/pacific ...  IF YOU HAVE A WAIVER TO USE A CERTIFIED PROVIDER, YOU WILL ALSO BE REQUIRED TO SUBMIT YOUR OWN CLAIM… AS USUAL WE WILL ASSIST WITH CLAIMS IN OUR RAO OFFICE… FOR MEMBERS THAT ARE IN TRICARE FOR LIFE (TFL) SHOULD REMEMBER THAT YOU HAVE THE OPTION TO GET FREE MEDICAL CARE IN THE UNITED STATES/ TERRITIORY AND GUAM IS A CLOSE OPTION… ALSO SHOULD NOT FORGET THE CATASTROPHIC CAP BENEFITS ( ALL TRICARE MEMBERS) THAT AFTER YOU EXPEND $ 3,000.00 OUT OF YOUR FUNDS (COST SHARE) DURING ANY GIVEN YEAR, TRICARE IS RESPONSIBLE FOR 100% OF ADDITIONAL COST.

FUNDS FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT/ OTHER:  PHILIPPINE HOSPITALS USUALLY REQUIRE A DEPOSIT AND CASH PAYMENT UPON DISCHARGE UNLESS YOU HAVE ACCEPTABLE INSURANCE/ CREDIT/ DEBIT CARDS; THEREFORE WE NEED TO BE PREPARED FOR EMERGENCIES… IF YOU DO NOT HAVE AN ACCEPTABLE MONETARY INSTRUMENT TO RESOLVE YOUR CREDIT, SUGGEST YOU CONSIDER OBTAINING A CREDIT CARD/ DEBIT CARD-ATM FROM YOUR STATESIDE/ LOCAL BANK…EXAMPLE; BANK OF COMMERCE / BPI/ BDO/ OTHER LOCAL BANKS WILL NORMALLY ISSUE YOU A CREDIT CARD/ DEBIT ATM CARD IF YOU HAVE AN ACCOUNT WITH THEM… BANKS IN THE PHILIPPINES NORMALLY CHARGE AN ANNUAL FEE BASED ON THE TYPE OF CREDIT CARD DESIRED; REGULAR CREDIT CARD FOR LOCAL USE & A GOLD/ EQUIVALENT FOR INTERNATIONAL USE… IF ONE IS HOSPITALIZED DURING AN EMERGENCY AND NO ONE ELSE HAS ACCESS TO YOUR BANK ACCOUNT, THESE CARDS CAN BE MIGHTY HANDY…. 

TREASURY MANDATE: PAY TO GO ELECTRONICS BY MARCH 1, 2013:

A TREASURY MANDATE WILL SOON REQUIRE US TO PAY OUR MILITARY, CIVILIAN AND RETIRED CUSTOMERS BY ELECTRONIC FUNDS TRANSFER. BEGINNING MARCH 1, 2013, MOST OF YOU WHO RECEIVE PAPER CHECKS WILL RECEIVE YOUR PAY DIRECTLY TO YOUR SAVINGS OR CHECKING ACCOUNTS. YOU CAN GET AHEAD OF THE RUSH BY SETTING UP DIRECT DEPOSIT NOW. IT’S EASY, IT’S SAFE AND IT GIVES YOU MORE CONTROL WITH LESS STRESS.  WITH DIRECT DEPOSIT, WE SEND YOUR PAYMENT STRAIGHT TO YOUR BANK ACCOUNT. IT GIVES YOU IMMEDIATE ACCESS TO YOUR MONEY THE DAY YOUR PAYMENT IS DUE. IT ALSO ELIMINATES THE RISK OF LOST OR STOLEN CHECKS, FORGED SIGNATURES AND IDENTITY THEFT,  SOURCE DFAS

PHILIPPINE DATA PRIVACY ACT 2012:  THE PHILIPPINES NOW HAS A PRIVACY ACT SIMILAR TO THE U.S… REF REPUBLIC ACT NO.  10173….FOR THOSE THAT APPRECIATE OUR 1974 PRIVACY ACT, THIS IS A VERY WELCOME CHANGE….

CRDP VS. CRSC:  RETIREES ELIGIBLE FOR BOTH CONCURRENT RETIREMENT AND DISABILITY PAY, AND COMBAT-RELATED SPECIAL COMPENSATION CAN CHOOSE WHICH ENTITLEMENT THEY PREFER TO RECEIVE.  THOSE ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ANNUAL OPEN SEASON RECEIVE A LETTER DETAILING THE BENEFITS OF EACH ENTITLEMENT.  INCLUDED WITH THE LETTER IS AN OPEN SEASON ELECTION FORM, ALLOWING THEM TO CHOOSE THE TYPE OF PAYMENT THEY WISH TO RECEIVE.  FEDERAL LAW PROHIBITS RECEIVING BOTH CRDP AND CRSC.  RETIREES MIGHT BASE THEIR DECISION ON THE DIFFERENCE IN MONETARY VALUE OR ON THE EFFECT EACH ENTITLEMENT WILL HAVE ON THEIR TAXABLE INCOME.  FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE TWO ENTITLEMENTS ARE ANSWERED AT www.dfas.mil/rapay/rafaqs/crdpcrsc.html.  THERE ARE SEVERAL DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE TWO ENTITLEMENTS: CRDP IS SUBJECT TO FEDERAL TAXES; CRSC IS NOT; CRDP IS SUBJECT TO DIVISION WITH A FORMER SPOUSE; CRSC IS NOT; SURVIVOR BENEFIT PLAN PREMIUMS CAN BE DEDUCTED  FROM CRDP, BUT NOT CRSC.  A CHART EXPLAINING THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE TWO IS AVAILABLE AT www.dfas.mil/rapay/disability/crscandcrdp.html.  RETIREES WITH QUESTIONS ABOUT HOW AN ELECTION WILL AFFECT THEIR TAXES SHOULD CONTACT A FINANCIAL ADVISER OR TAX PROFESSIONAL.  IF A RETIREE FEELS THE INFORMATION REFLECTED ON THEIR FORM IS INCORRECT, THEY MAY CONTACT DEFENSE ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE SERVICE AT 1 800 321-1080, 7 A.M. TO 7:30 P.M.  SOURCE: RAO JBAB, DC

CHANGE IN BOND ALLOTMENTS:  THE DEFENSE FINANCE AND ACCOUNTING SERVICE (DFAS) HAS DISCONTINUED SAVINGS BOND ALLOTMENTS PROCESSING FOR MILITARY PERSONNEL AND MILITARY RETIREES… THE TREASURY HAS CONVERTED TO ELECTRONIC TRANSACTIONS THROUGH www.TreasuryDirect.gov… DFAS CUSTOMERS WHO WISH TO CONTINUE PURCHASING SAVINGS BONDS THROUGH PAYROLL DEDUCTION NEED TO ESTABLISH AN ONLINE ACCOUNT WITH TREASURY DIRECT… SOURCE: RAO, JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING, D.C.

CRIME IN ANGELES CITY:  SEEMS THAT OUR CITY IS NOT AS SAFE AS BEFORE… THERE ARE MORE BREAKING AND ENTERING PROBLEMS, MORE VIOLENCE AGAINST FOREIGNERS PLUS THE NORMAL EXTORTION RACKETS, PICKPOCKETS AND SNATCHING… SOME THINGS YOU CAN DO TO MAKE IT MORE DIFFICULT FOR THE CRIMINAL ELEMENT IS TO MAINTAIN A LOW PROFILE AND DO NOT OVERDRESS OR WEAR EXPENSIVE JEWELRY OR DRIVE EXPENSIVE VEHICLE… ALSO WOULD BE ADVISABLE TO INSTALL AN INEXPENSIVE BUGLARY ALARM SYSTEM IN YOUR HOME (LESS THAN P4, 000.)… IF YOU GO THE SAME ROUTE AT THE SAME TIME EVERYDAY, YOU BECOME AN EASY TARGET… TRY AND CHANGE YOUR TRAVEL HABITS AND BE ALERT…

DFAS MAKING DEATH REPORTING EASIER:  DFAS MILITARY RETIREES DEATHS CAN NOW BE REPORTED VIA THE INTERNET AT LINK http://www.dfas.mil/retiredmilitary/forms.html. THIS IS MUCH QUICKER THAN MAILING/FAX AND SHOULD RECEIVE CONFIRMATION OF RECEIPT WITHIN 48 HOURS… THIS SHOULD ALSO EXPEDITE ANY BENEFITS YOU MAY HAVE COMING FROM DFAS… IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE, PLS SEE US AT THE RAO OFFICE.
NOTE:  THIS DOES NOT APPLY TO ANNUITANTS…  SEE ATTACHMENT…

· DOWNLOAD, SAVE AND PRINT PAY ACCOUNT INFORMATION FROM MILITARY RETIRED OR ANNUITANT ACCOUNT STATEMENTS
· DOWNLOAD, SAVE AND PRINT ANNUAL TAX STATEMENTS SUCH AS 1099Rs.
· VERIFY AND UPDATE POSTAL AND E-MAIL ADDRESSES.
· VERIFY AND UPDATE BANK ACCOUNT INFORMATION FOR DIRECT DEPOSIT.
· START, CHANGE OR STOP FINANCIAL ALLOTMENTS.
· MAKE CHANGES TO FEDERAL OR STATE TAX WITHHOLDING AMOUNTS.
· CHANGE USER NAMES AND PASSWORDS TO KEEP ACCOUNTS SECURE.

ACR I-CARD HOLDERS: REMINDER THAT YOU MUST REGISTER WITH PHILIPPINE IMMIGRATIONS IN YOUR AREA (CLARK FIELD FOR THE ANGELES AREA) WITHIN THE 1^ST 60 DAYS OF THE NEW YEAR. . . REPORT AND LEGAL RESEARCH FEES P 310.00. TO REGISTER, YOU MUST HAVE A CURRENT ACR I-CARD. . . IF YOUR ACR I-CARD IS EXPIRED, THEY WILL DIRECT YOU TO BUREAU OF IMMIGRATION AT MAGALLANES DRIVE, INTRAMUROS, MANILA TO RENEW YOUR CARD. . . ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE SHOULD BE ASKED WHILE IN THE IMMIGRATION OFFICE AT CLARK FIELD. . . SEE ATTACHMENT FOR REQUIREMENTS. . .

FPO MAIL POLICY WHILE OUT OF TOWN:  IF YOU PLAN ON BEING OUT OF TOWN OVER 15 DAYS, YOU SHOULD HAVE AN AUTHORIZED DESIGNATED REPRESENTATIVE TO PICK UP YOUR MAIL OR PROVIDE US A SIGNED LETTER STATING HOW LONG YOU INTEND TO BE AWAY AND WE CAN HOLD YOUR MAIL UP TO 30 DAYS… IN EVENT YOUR TRIP IS EXTENDED, YOU WILL NEED TO SEND US A SIGNED LETTER/E-MAIL SCAN/ FAX STATING THE REASON BEFORE WE CAN TAKE ANY FURTHER ACTION… IF YOU DO NOT COMPLY WITH THIS POLICY/MAKE OTHER ARRANGEMENTS, YOUR MAIL WILL BE RETURNED…

FPO POLICY:  THE U.S. EMBASSY, MANILA IS RETURNING PACKAGES THAT WEIGH OVER 16OZ/UNAUTHORIZED ITEMS… WE ARE ALLOWED TO RECEIVE FIRST CLASS LETTERS INCLUDING PERSONAL VOICE AND VIDEO CASETTES/CD’S, NEWSPAPERS, MAGAZINES, PHOTOGRAPHS NOT TO EXCEED 16 OUNCES… WE ARE ALSO AUTHORIZED TO RECEIVE CHECKBOOKS AND TRICARE EXPRESS SCRIPT (NATIONAL MAIL ORDER PHARMACY) PACKAGES WITHOUT A WEIGH LIMIT… PLEASE REMEMBER, THAT A U.S. PHYSICIAN MUST WRITE THE PRESCRIPTION FOR EXPRESS SCRIPT (NMOP) SHIPMENTS… IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO RECEIVE PHARMACY, ETC THAT ARE NOT FPO AUTHORIZED, I HAVE FOUND THAT U.S. EXPRESS MAIL ADDRESSED TO YOUR HOME ADDRESS WORKS GREAT… EXPRESS MAIL CAN ALSO BE TRACED ON LINE…

INCORRECT FPO ADDRESS: EACH FPO MEMBERS IS GIVEN THE CORRECT ADDRESS TO RECEIVE MAIL: HOWEVER, MAIL STILL GETS ADDRESSED TO THE FPO ADDRESS WITH PHILIPPINES ADDED. WHEN THIS HAPPENS, THE FPO MAIL ENDS UP IN THE INTERNATIONAL MAIL SYSTEM AND USUALLY LOST. . . WE ARE ABLE TO RETRIEVE SOME FPO LETTERS FROM THE MAIN PHILIPPINE POST OFFICE IN MANILA AND GIVE TO OUR FPO MEMBERS; HOWEVER, THIS IS A HIT AND MISS WAY OF DOING BUSINESS. . BE SURE TO INFORM THE PEOPLE YOU CORRESPOND NOT TO INCLUDE PHILIPPINES IN THE FPO ADDRESS . . . AS ALL ARE AWARE, THE U.S MAIL SYSTEM IS ONE OF THE MOST SECURE SYSTEMS WORLDWIDE; HOWEVER, MAIL SOMETIMES GETS DESTROYED WITH HIGH SPEED SORTING MACHINE OR MISROUTED. USUALLY, MISROUTED MAIL WILL EVENTUALLY FIND ITS WAY TO THE CORRECT ADDRESS; HOWEVER, A LITTLE LATE. . BASED ON THE VOLUME OF U.S MAIL, VERY LITTLE IS LOST; HOWEVER, IF YOU HAVE A VERY IMPORTANT DOCUMENT, SUGGEST YOU MAIL CERTIFIED MAIL WITH RETURN RECEIPT. . . WE HAD ONE CASE WERE A RETIREE TRUSTED HIS EX WIFE WITH HIS 50% OF HIS RETIRED PAY AND SHE WAS SUPPOSED TO MAIL HIS SHARE MONTHLY. . . AFTER NOT RECEIVING HIS PAY FOR A COUPLE OF MONTH HE STARTING TO COMPLAIN TO THE POST OFFICE ABOUT LOST CHECKS FROM HIS EX WIFE. . . LATER, HE FOUND OUT THAT EX WIFE WAS USING THE MONEY INSTEAD OF SENDING TO HIM. . . LOT OF REASONS FOR NOT RECEIVING MAIL. . .

ILLEGAL USE OF AFRTS IN OUR AREA: HAD SEVERAL REPORTS OF BARS USING AFRTS TO PROMOTE THEIR BUSINESS AFRTS IS ONLY AUTHORIZED TO MILITARY PERSONNEL/RETIREES FOR HOME USE AND CANNOT TRANSFERRED TO UNAUTHORIZED PEOPLE/BUSINESS NEED YOUR HELP IN LOCATING BARS AND OTHER NON AUTHORIZED PEOPLE THAT HAVE OBTAINED AFRTS ACCESS ILLEGALLY... UPON RECEIPT, WE WILL REPORT TO AFRTS AND HAVE THEIR SERVICE DISCONTINUED... IF WE DO NOT TAKE ACTION NOW, ALL COULD LOOSE THIS VERY VALUABLE SERVICE...

MAIL-IN SYSTEM FOR ARMY  ID CARDS/DEERS ENROLLMENT:   FOR RENEWAL, WE WILL REQUIRE A 8X10” PHOTO (HEAD AND SHOLDER WITH A LIGHT BACKGROUND), THE SPONSOR AND A XEROX COPY OF HIS/HER PASSPORT AND YOUR CURRENT MIL ID CARD… FOR INITIAL DEERS ENROLLMENT/MIL ID CARD, WE WILL REQUIRE; SPONSOR, DD FORM 214,  MARRIAGE CONTRACT AND ANY TERMINATION OF MARRIAGE DOCUMENTS, 8X10” PHOTO (IF OVER 10 YEARS OF AGE) PASSPO  RT OR GOV’T ID’S AND ADOPTION DOCUMENTS (WHEN APPLY)… DD FORM 1172 AND PHOTO MUST BE NOTARIZED WHICH CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED ACROSS THE STREET FROM OUR OFFICE... NORMALLY TAKES AROUND SIX WEEKS TO COMPLETE THE PROCESS...

RECOGNITION OF A FILIPINO CITIZEN: SOMETIME REFERRED TO AS A CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION… AMERICAN CITIZENS THAT HAVE CHILDREN BORN IN THE PHILIPPINES TO A FILIPINO MOTHER MUST OBTAIN A CONSULAR REPORT OF BIRTH ABROAD PLUS A U.S. PASSPORT-REF U.S. EMBASSY, MANILA WEB http://manila.usembassy.gov. ONCE YOU RECEIVE BOTH DOCUMENTS YOU SHOULD VISIT PHILIPPINE IMMIGRATION (CLARK FIELD FOR OUR AREA) AND OBTAIN RECOGNITION CERTIFICATE. BELIEVE THE COST IS AROUND P12.5K. . . THIS CERTIFICATE WILL SERVE AS FILIPINO CITIZENSHIP FOR THE PURPOSE OF GOING TO SCHOOL, ENTRY/EXIT FROM THE PHILIPPINE/OTHER. . . OBTAINING THIS RECOGNITION CERTIFICATE AS SOON AS THE CHILD RECEIVES U.S. CITIZENSHIP WILL SAVE YOU A LOT OF PESOS LATER. . .

REVIEWING DEERS ELIGIBILITY FOR YOU/FAMILY ON LINE:  CAN REVIEW DEERS ELIGIBILITY FOR YOU/FAMILY BY REGISTERING ON WEB http://www.tricare-overseas.com/Beneficiaries.htm ... WHEN IN DOUBT ABOUT ELIGIBILITY OR WHEN REQUESTED BY YOUR MEDICAL PROVIDER, THIS IS AN EXCELLENT MEANS OF CONFIRMING ELIGIBILITY STATUS… CAN ALSO CHECK YOUR TRICARE ELIGIBILITY BY REGISTERING ON WEB tricare4u.com …

RETIREMENT PLANNING:  SHOULD ALWAYS DO YOUR RESEARCH ON THE COUNTRY YOU PLAN TO RETIRE... THIS INCLUDES OUR RAO WEB, VFW POST 2485 WEB www.vfwpost2485.com U.S EMBASSY, and MANILA WEB http://manila.usembassy.gov  ... SEE  ATTACHMENT...

VA MOVE TO SEAFRONT: THE VA REGIONAL OFFICE AND CLINIC HAS MOVED TO THEIR NEW BUILDING AT THE SEAFRONT COMPOUND 1501 ROXAS BOULEVARD, PASAY CITY... FOR CONTACT DATA AND HOW TO GET THERE, SEE ATTACHMENT...

VOTING OFFICER SERVICE:  I AM THE U.S. EMBASSY VOTING OFFICER FOR THIS REGION AND AVAILABLE TO HELP YOU WITH YOUR VOTING QUESTIONS. . . WE HAVE OUR VOTING ASSISSTANCE GUIDE AND FEDERAL POST CARD APPLICATION (FPCA) FORMS AT OUR MAIN FPO NEXT TO MY OFFICE. . .  ALL AMERICAN CITIZENS ARE AUTHORIZED TO USE THE U.S. EMBASSY FPO TO VOTE BY MAIL. . .

TRICARE FRAUD: I RECEIVE A LOT OF FEEDBACK FROM TRICARE PROVIDERS AND OUR RETIREE COMMUNITY CONCERING TRICARE FRAUD…APPEARS THAT SEVERAL OF OUR RETIREE/FAMILY MEMBERS ARE ASKING PHYSICIANS TO SUBMIT FAKE CLAIMS AND SPLIT THE AMOUNT RECEIVED FROM TRICARE. ALSO SOME PHYSICIANS AND THEIR COHORTS ARE TRYING TO RECRUIT RETIREES/DEPENDENTS/WIDOWS TO FILE FAKE CLAIMS AND DO THE SAME THING… THIS CAN GET YOU IN SERIOUS TROUBLE WITH U.S. LAW ENFORCEMENT AND JEOPARDIZE OUR TRICARE BENEFITS IN THE PHILIPPINES… WE HAVE ALREADY BEEN SINGLED OUT BY TRICARE DUE TO PAST FRAUD AND IF THINGS GET MORE CORRUPT, OUR BENEFITS COULD BE IN SERIOUS TROUBLE.. IF YOU KNOW OF ANYONE THAT IS SUBMITTING FAKE TRICARE CLAIMS, PLEASE PROVIDE ME AN E-MAIL AT rao_cabr@mozcom.com AND I WILL FORWARD ALL THE VALID COMPLAINTS TO THE DOD IG FOR ACTION...

UNITED STATES REPATRIATION:  IF YOU ARE AN AMERICAN CITIZEN AND STRANDED HERE WITHOUT OPTIONS, AMERICAN CITIZENS SERVICES (ACS) AT THE U.S. EMBASSY, MANILA MAY BE ABLE TO HELP…THE U.S. GOV’T WILL ALSO PROVIDE LIMITED SUPPORT WHEN YOU RETURN TO THE UNITED STATES IF NEEDED…  ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:  *  A U.S. CITIZEN,  * DESTITUTE AND WOULD EXPERIENCE HARDSHIP IF NOT RETURNED TO THE U.S.,  *  WITHOUT RELATIVES OR FRIENDS IN THE U.S. OR ABROAD WHO WILL PROVIDE ASSISTANCE,  * INVOLVED IN, OR THE CAUSE OF A SITUATION WHICH MAY DAMAGE THE PRESTIGE OF THE U.S. GOV’T OR OTHER COMPELLING REASONS AS DETERMINED BY THE DEPT OF STATE… IF YOU QUALIFY FOR THE ABOVE OR WOULD LIKE TO DISCUSS YOUR PROBLEM WITH ME, I AM AVAILABLE TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS AND MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS… 

U.S. MILITARY RECRUITMENT:  TESTING IS ON THE 2^ND & 4^TH SAT OF EACH MONTH (EXCEPT HOLIDAYS) AT 0945HRS AT OUR RAO OFFICE FOR ALL BRANCHES OF SERVICE… MUST HAVE U.S. PASSPORT/CURRENT GREEN CARD, SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER (SSN) AND SCHOOL RECORDS… MUST BE AT LEAST A HIGH SCHOOL GRAD... THE USAF REQUIRED 15 COLLEGE CREDITS… AGE REQUIREMENTS: MUST BE AT LEAST 17 YEARS OF AGE AND CANNOT BE OVER 27 FOR USAF AND USMC… ARMY WILL ACCEPT UP TO AGE 34…

U.S. ARMY  RECRUITER: AGE 17-34, HIGH SCHOOL GRAD OR HIGHER, GOOD HEALTH, NO CRIMINAL RECORD AND BE A U. S. CITIZEN/CURRENT GREEN CARD HOLDER... CAN TEST AT OUR RAO ON THE 2^ND & 4^TH SAT OF EACH MONTH AND IF QUALIFIED WE CAN NOTIFY THE ARMY TO CONTACT YOU. . . SUGGESTS YOU STUDY WWW.MARCH2SUCCESS.COM TO IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF PASSING THE SCREENING TEST…

U.S. NAVY RECRUITER VISIT:  THE NAVY RECRUITER WAS HERE ON 18-19 MAY, 2012 AND PLANS TO RETURN LATER THIS YEAR. . . WILL KEEP YOU ADVISED. CAN TEST AT OUR OFFICE ON THE 2^ND & 4^TH SAT OF EACH MONTH. . .  MUST BE A U.S. CITIZEN/CURRENT GREEN CARD HOLDER WITH SSN… AGE REQUIREMENT: 17-34 YEARS OF AGE AND AT LEAST A HIGH SCHOOL GRAD WITHOUT PHYSICAL DEFECTS… WE TEST FOR ALL BRANCHES OF SERVICE ON THE 2^ND AND 4^TH SAT OF EACH MONTH … SUGGESTS YOU STUDY WWW.MARCH2SUCCESS.COM TO IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF PASSING THE SCREENING TEST…

U.S. EMBASSY OUTREACH AT ANGELES CITY:   OUR NEXT U.S. EMBASSY OUTREACH WILL BE ON MAY 31,  2013  AT THE LEWIS GRAND HOTEL, MALABANAS ANGELES CITY BETWEEN 0800-1100 HRS...  IN THE MEANTIME, IF YOU REQUIRE EMBASSY SERVICES, CHECK WEB http//manila.usembassy.gov AND CLICK U.S. CITIZEN SERVICES... OUR LAST FEW OUTREACH PROGRAMS HAVE BEEN TOO SUCCESSFUL WITH OVER 500 CUSTOMERS EACH TIME . . . VERY IMPORTANT TO SIGN-UP FOR RAO UPDATES AT E-MAIL ADDRESS rao_cabr@#mozcom.com SO WE CAN KEEP YOU INFORMED… SIGN-IN PROCEDURES: MUST SIGN-IN USING U.S. EMBASSY SIGN-IN FORMS... CANNOT USE BLANK SHEET OF PAPER TO SIGN IN... THERE ARE SEVERAL STAFF AGENCIES THAT COME ON EACH OUTREACH AND EACH ONE MUST HAVE THEIR OWN SIGN-IN SHEET SO THEY CAN CALL YOUR NAME IN SEQUENCE...  WE NORMALLY START THE SIGN-IN PROCESS AT LEAST 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO STARTING THE OUTREACH… DO NOT ENTER THE FUNCTION ROOM UNTIL YOU HAVE SIGNED IN ON THE OFFICIAL SIGN-IN SHEET... ALL PAYMENTS ARE IN PESOS AND YOU SHOULD HAVE THE CORRECT CHANGE… PASSPORT FORMS SHOULD BE FILLED OUT ON-LINE AND DOWNLOADED AT U.S. EMBASSY WEB http//manila.usembassy.gov IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A COMPUTER, YOU CAN MAKE COPIES OF THE APPLICATION AT OUR OFFICE… PASSPORT PHOTO REQUIREMENT: 2 PIECES 2 X 2 COLORS WITH LIGHT BACKGROUND... MONEY CHANGERS & PHOTO SERVICES MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE AND YOU SHOULD PLAN AHEAD… COST OF SERVICES ARE AS FOLLOWS:

COST OF SERVICE ARE:                                                                 PESO EQUIVALENT TO:
 PASSPORT RENEWAL  ADULT - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -                       $110.00
 *PASSPORT RENEWAL CHILD  - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -                      $105.00
  1ST PASSPORT RENEWAL AFTER AGE 16  - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -                     $135.00
  LOST OR STOLEN PASSPORT - - - - - - - - - - -  - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -                     $135.00
  AFFADAVIT/NOTARY  - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -                      $50.00
  cONSULAR REPORT OF BIRTH ABROAD WITH PASSPORT (OVER AGE 16 BUT UNDER AGE 18) - -    $235.00
  CONSULAR REPORT OF BIRTH ABROAD WITH PASSPORT - - - - -                    $205.00
  CONSULAR REPORT OF BIRTH ABROAD (ONLY) - - - - - - - - - - - - -                     $100.00
  ADDITIONAL PASSPORT VISA PAGES- - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -                  $82.00
  TALK TO JIM BOYD - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -                   FREE

SATELLITE RETIREE ACTIVITIES OFFICES (SRAO), PHILIPPINES:

BACOLOD:           OSCAR SMITH, USAF RET
(Alternate)        P.O. BOX 217  
                   BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL 6100
                   raobacolod@hotmail.com

BAGUIO:            LEN HARVEY, USAF RET
                   47 MISSION ROAD, CRYSTAL CAVE
                   BAGUIO CITY 2600
                   TEL NO. 074-442-3468, FAX: 074-442-4205
                   CP NO. 63915 328 0757
                   lenharvey@live.com.ph

CAGAYAN DE ORO:    MIKE FARRELL, USMC RET
                   #2 VILLA MARIA PASCO VILLAGE, TABLON    
                   CAGAYAN DE ORO, MISAMIS ORIENTAL 9000
                   firstsgtmike@hotmail.com

DAGUPAN CITY:      ROBERTO MACARAEG
                   FORMERLY NSO BLDG
                   A.B. FERNANDEZ EAST
                   DAGUPAN CITY, 2400
                   CP NO. 63919-848-9317 
                   TEL NO. . (075) 696-9106 or (075) 653-3347 
		   mangbert59@yahoo.com

DAVAO:		   ALBERT ENCARNACION, USN RET
		   DAVAO CITY 8000
		   enca67@yahoo.com

LAOAG CITY:        ERIC ALLAN CHURCH
                   BRGY. 5 LAOAG CITY,
		   ILOCOS NORTE
                   PHILIPPINES 2900
                   TEL.# (077) 770-4252
                   CEL # 639189035206
                   qmcguam@yahoo.com

LA UNION:          EUGENE BROWN, USN RET.
                   #01 GREEN VALLY RD COMPOUND
                   PARINGAO, BAUANG, LA UNION 2501 
		   TEL NO. (072)607-6725 
		   (ebrown@mozcom.com)

LEYTE:             ROBERT L. BOLICK  USAF RET
                   ALEGRIA, SLAUTERHOUSE RD.
                   ORMOC CITY, LEYTE 6541 
		   (bobbyespina@yahoo.com)

                   JOSEPH GROVER  
                   LAPU-LAPU ST.
                   TOLOSA, LEYTE 
		   CEL NO.(63)9189061181 
		   (joejing2003@yahoo.com)

NUEVA VIZCAYA:	   MARIO E. ANTES
		   #56 BRGY.ALMAGUER SOUTH,
		   BAMBANG, NUEVA VIZCAYA, 3702
		   CELL# +63939-910-3997/
			 +63928-500-1986 
		   (emmar55@yahoo.com)

WESTERN SAMAR:	   PETE FREDRICKSON
		   WESTERN SAMAR MONBON,
		   PUROK 13 SAN JOAQUIN,
		   CALBAYOG CITY RP 6710
		   TEL NO. (55) 301-2024
		   CEL NO. +639177111814

CLARK FIELD:       LEONARD JONES    
                   PSC 517 BOX R C
                   FPO AP 96517-1000
                   Jones1142@yahoo.com

NEW FORM WILL ASSIST WITH DEATH NOTIFICATIONS

CLEVELAND (AFRNS)- Defense Finance and Accounting Service officials report that survivors can now use a “fast form” to report the passing of a retiree on the Internet rather than waiting on the phone.

The DFAS Form 9221 for notification of death can be processed quicker than faxed or mailed forms, said officials, and they save paper and postage costs. Officials warn that if a survivor doesn’t receive confirmation of receipt from DFAS within 48 hours of submitting the form, they should call 800-321-1080.

            The form can be completed and submitted online from the privacy of a customer’s home, or with the help of a casualty assistance representative. Submitting the form initiates all of the same actions a DFAS customer care center representative would:

• The retiree’s account will be suspended to avoid release of monthly payments.
• A Standard Form 1174 claim form will be sent to the retiree’s arrears-of-pay beneficiary.
• If the decedent was enrolled in the Survivor Benefit Plan or the Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan, an annuitant care package will be sent to the beneficiary.

The notification-of-death form is only for reporting the death of a military retiree. Annuitant deaths must still be reported to one of the DFAS customer care representatives at 800-321-1080.

To access the notification of death fast form, click on the link at http://www.dfas.mil/retiredmilitary/forms.html. For more retiree news and information, please visit www.retirees.af.mil.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
DFAS (NEWS RELEASE)
Defense Finance and Accounting Service
8899 East 56^TH Street
INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46249

 MILITARY RETIREE PAY DATES TO CHANGE

CLEVELAND (SEPTEMBER 2, 2011)- PAYDAYS FOR MILITARY RETIREES AND THOSE WHO RECEIVE PORTIONS OF RETIRED PAY ARE CHANGING FOR SEPTEMBER AND DECEMBER, AS THE DEFENSE FINANCE AND ACCOUNTING SERVICE CHANGES ITS PAY SCHEDULE TO COMPLY WITH THE 2011 NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHOTIZATION ACT.

THE 2011 NDAA REQUIRES MILITARY RETIREE PAY TO BE PROCESSED ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE MONTH. WHEN THAT DAY FALLS ON A WEEKEND OR NATIONAL HOLIDAY, THE PAY DATE IS MOVED TO THE PREVIOUS BUSINESS DAY.

THIS YEAR PAYMENTS NORMALLY SCHEDULED FOR OCT. 3, 2011 WILL BE ISSUED ON SEPT. 30, 2011 AND PAYMENTS NORMALLY SCHEDULED FOR JAN. 3, 2012, WILL BE ISSUED ON DEC.30, 2011. FOR THE CALENDAR YEAR 2011, THIS MEANS MILITARY RETIREES WILL RECEIVE 13 RATHER THAN THE NORMAL 12 PAYMENTS.

THE 13^TH PAYDAY ON DECEMBER 30 FALLS WITHIN THE 2011 TAX YEAR, WHICH COULD AFFECT THE TAX LIABILITY OF SOME RETIREES AND THOSE WHO RECEIVE PORTIONS OF THEIR RETIRED PAY. CUSTOMERS SHOULD SPEAK WITH A TAX ADVISOR, THE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE OR THEIR STATE TAX AUTHORITY TO DETERMINE IF THEIR TAX WITHHOLDING WILL SATISFY FEDERAL AND STATE INCOME TAXES WHEN THEY FILE RETURNS NEXT YEAR. DFAS CANNOT PROVIDE TAX ADVICE.

FOR TAX YEAR 2012 AND BEYOND, RETIREES WILL RECEIVE THEIR NORMAL 12 PAYMENTS.

THIS CHANGE AFFECTS REGULAR RETIRED PAY, CONCURRENT RETIREMENT AND DISABILITY PAY AND COMBAT RELATED SPECIAL COMPENSATION. THE NEW RULE ALSO APPLIES TO RETIREE ALLOTMENTS, GARNISHMENTS AND COURT-ORDERED FORMER SPOUSE AND CHILD SUPPORT PAYMENTS. IT DOES NOT AFFECT ANNUITY PAYMENTS.

IF RETIREES NEED TO MAKE CHANGES TO THEIR FEDERAL OT STATE TAX WITHHOLDING, THE QUICKEST AND MOST SECURE WAY TO DO SO IS THROUGH myPAY. AVAILABLE 24 HOURS A DAY, SEVEN DAYS A WEEK, myPAY ENABLES ELIGIBLE USERS AROUND THE WORLD TO MAKE ROUTINE CHANGES TO THEIR PAY INFORMATION, INCLUDING TAX WITHHOLDING, THAT BECOME EFFECTIVE WITHIN DAYS.

CUSTOMERS WHO CANNOT ACCESS myPAY CAN CHANGE FEDERAL WITHHOLDING AMOUNTS BY COMPLETING A NEW IRS FORM W-4 OR W-4P, OR CHANGE STATE WITH HOLDING AMOUNTS USING A DD 2866. THESE FORMS CAN BE FOUND ON THE DFAS WEBSITE (www.dfas.mil/retiredmilitary/forms.html) AND SHOULD BE MAILED OR FAXED TO THE BELOW ADDRESS ONCE COMPLETED:

             DEFENSE FINANCE AND ACCOUNTING SERVICE
             U.S. MILITARY RETIRED PAY
             P.O. BOX 7130
             LONDON, KY 40742-7130
             FAX: 800-469-6559

 IT MAY TAKE UP TO 30 DAYS FOR CHANGES TO BE MADE WHEN MAILING IN A PAPER FORM.
__________________________________________________________________________________________

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

BUREAU OF IMMIGRATION

MAGALLANES DRIVE, INTRAMUROS

1002 MANILA

OFFICE MEMORANDUM ORDER NO. RADJR 014

STREAMLINED REQUIREMENTS FOR RENEWAL OF ACR I-CARDS

1.     This supplements Memorandum dated 14 February 2011.

2.     In conformity with the provisions of Republic Act No. 9485 (Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007) declaring that the State shall take appropriate measures to promote transparency in each agency with regard to the manner of transacting with the public, which shall encompass a program for the adoption of simplified procedures that will reduce red tape and for the expedite transactions in government, the following streamlined documentary requirements for the renewal of Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) I-CARD, including those of native born aliens, shall be followed:

a.     Duly accomplished Application Form signed by applicant or either parent in the case of a minor;

b.     Original  ACR I-CARD;

c.     Original passport with photocopies of bio-page and latest arrival stamps; and

d.     Proof of payment of the required fees to be indicated in the application form and/or in the Order of Approval.

3.     Should there be any doubt or suspicion as to the (i) authenticity/genuineness of the ACR I-CARD or (ii) true identity of the ACR I-CARD holder, the responsible officer shall prepare the necessary recommendation and refer the same to the Chief of Intelligence Division for appropriate action.

4.     All other circulars, memoranda, rules, regulations and other issuances inconsistent herewith are hereby revoked.

The Chiefs of the Alien Registration Division (ARD), Public Information Assistance Counter (PIAC) and all concerned shall ensure strict compliance of this memorandum.

Additional Information:

          Understand the cost is $20.00 and should wear long pants when visiting Philippine Immigrations . . . Policy is subject to change without notice.. .

            The standard Medicare Part B monthly will be $99.90 in 2012, a $15.50 decrease over the 2011 premium of $115.40. However, most Medicare beneficiaries were held harmless in 2011 and paid $96.40 per month. The 2012 premium represents a $3.50 increase for them.

                 In 2012, Social Security monthly payments to enrollees will increase by 3.6 %. The dollar increase in benefit checks is expected to be large enough on average to cover the increase in the Part B premium of $3.50 that most beneficiaries will experience. For those who were paying the standard premium of $115.40, their benefits checks will only increase.

               As required in the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003, beginning in 2007 the Part B premium a beneficiary pays each month is based on his or her annual income. Specially, if a beneficiary’s “modified adjusted gross income” is greater than the legislated threshold amounts ($85,000 in 2012 for a beneficiary filing an individual income tax return or married and filing a separate return, and $170,000 for a beneficiary filing a joint tax return) the beneficiary is responsible for a larger portion of the estimated total cost of Part B benefit coverage.

            In addition to the standard Part B premium, affected beneficiaries must pay an income-related monthly adjustment amount. These income-related amounts were phased-in over three years, beginning in 2007. About 4% of current Part B enrollees are expected to be subject to these higher premium amounts.

            For additional details, see our FAQ titled: “2012 Part B premium Amounts for Persons with Higher Income Levels”.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________

Retirement Abroad

Retirement abroad requires careful planning. Here are some important steps to take before you go.

Check Visa and Residency Requirements: Immigration and residency laws differ greatly from country to country. Determine if you need a visa to enter and reside in the country where you want to retire by reviewing the Department of State’s Country Specific Information. If dual citizenship is an option for you, review our information on dual nationality before taking this step.

Know the Local Laws: Seek professional legal advice before settling abroad. Determine whether your trust, will and powers of attorney may be legally enforceable in your country of destination. In addition to your lawyer in the United States, the U.S. embassy or consulate can provide you with a list of local English-speaking lawyers willing to assist U.S. citizens. Especially in local real estate matters, it is important to understand any contracts you are asked to sign. Review the local traffic laws and licensing requirements if you intend to drive. Some countries have a changeable political environment with more opaque legal systems. Be sure to find out what civil liberties and political rights you will have as a foreign resident.

Prepare Your Finances: Determine your retirement budget, and allow for exchange rate fluctuations and inflation. You may want to meet with a financial adviser before you go and consider such things as opening a local bank account.

Pay Your Taxes: Leaving the country does not exempt U.S. citizens from their U.S. tax obligations. While some retirees may not owe any U.S. income tax while they are living abroad, you must still file a return annually with the IRS. This is the case even if you move all of your assets to a foreign country; you may still be taxed on income regardless of where it is earned.

Retirees abroad must also fulfill any tax obligations of their foreign country of residence. The United States has tax treaties with a number of countries that address double taxation, but these treaties generally don't exempt residents from the obligation to file a return. Retirees who acquire any assets abroad should also consider the need to modify estate plans, since those assets may be subject to local estate tax rules. Insurance is another factor to consider with assets acquired overseas. Most U.S. umbrella liability policies don't cover international assets. For more information please review the IRS’s tax information for residents and U.S. citizens living abroad.

Understand your Social Security Benefits: If you are thinking about retiring abroad, find out if you can receive your Social Security or other federal agency benefits outside the United States. Social Security Administration's Office of International Operations (OIO) provides such information, and consular officers at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate can also assist you.

Research Medical Care and Costs: Healthcare tops the list of concerns for many U.S. citizens who are thinking about moving abroad. Medicare, the U.S. government health plan for people 65 and over, does not cover healthcare overseas. Many countries have national health systems, but it is important to investigate availability and quality beforehand. Note that environmental conditions at your overseas destination may contribute to specific health concerns, particularly if you are sensitive to altitude, air pollution, humidity, or other conditions. Consult with your physician prior to your move overseas to identify your healthcare needs at your retirement destination. We highly recommend that you get health insurance to cover private medical and dental treatment and for medical evacuation to the United States just in case.

For more tips related to health issues visit our website. Health information may also be found at the Travelers’ Health page of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website.

Research Accessibility and Accommodations: If you have mobility difficulties or use a wheelchair, determine access to areas such as swimming pools, public facilities, restaurants, bars, toilets, etc. Determine if shopping and entertainment are accessible. For more information, check out our section on Traveling with Disabilities.

You’re Still Eligible to Vote: U.S. citizens 18 years or older who reside outside the United States are generally eligible to vote absentee in U.S. elections. In addition to voting for candidates for federal offices, voters from some states may be eligible to vote in elections for state and local offices and referendums. For more information, visit the Federal Voting Assistance Program’s website.

Beware of Scams: Retirement funds are an attractive target for scammers who make false promises of romance, friendship, or financial gain. Scammers operate primarily via the internet, email, and phone. For more information, please review our information on International Financial Scams. Information on scams common in your destination country can also be found in each country's Country Specific Information.

Prepare for Emergencies: Leave emergency contact information and a copy of your passport biographic data page with family and trusted friends. Carry emergency contact information for your family in the United States with you when you travel (be sure to also pencil it in the emergency contact information sectin of your passport). Know the contact information for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and provide that information to your family and friends. If there is an emergency where you are staying, such as civil unrest, disrupted transportation, or a natural disaster, prevent undue worry or concern by contacting your family and friends as soon as possible.

Stay Connected: A secure way to maintain your emergency contact information is to enroll with Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. Your information is stored securely and enables the Department of State, U.S. embassy, or consulate to contact you, your family, or your friends in an emergency according to your wishes.

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­_________________________________________________________________________________

THE BUREAU OF CONSULAR AFFAIRS IN THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

HAS NO HIGHER RESPONSIBILITY THAN SAFEGUARDING OUR COUNTRY’S CITIZENS.

To find out more about the services we provide, go to http://www.travels.state.gov  

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

• The entrance to the new VA Facility is along the Roxas Boulevard service road just north of the US Embassy Seafront Compound vehicle gate.
• Private vehicles will not be allowed inside the compound except to drop-off bed-bound veterans arriving via special conveyance (e.g. ambulance).
• The new building is a non-smoking facility.
• The facility does not provide food services. Several food establishments are located near the area. (e.g. 7-11, Jollibee, Mang Inasal).
• The new building is approximately 1km from the old VA Clinic and 3 approximately kilometers from the old Regional Office and main US Embassy Compound. The Cuneta Astrodome along Roxas Boulevard is approximately 100 meters from the Seafront Compound.

 HOW TO GET THERE?

FROM CITY OF MANILA

BY TRAIN (YELLOW LINE f. LRT 1)

OPTION #1

• From City of Manila, i.e Monumento station: get off at Libertad (A. Arnaiz Ave.) station.
• Board on any jeepney (with the following routes below) that will pass by F.B> Harrison/ Holiday Plaza.

Ø Domingo/ Holiday Jeeps (color green)

Ø Pasay Luna/ Pier I Jeeps

Ø Pasay Luna/ Harrison Plaza Jeeps

Ø M. Dela Cruz/ Holiday Jeeps

Ø Drop-off at F.B. Harrison road

• Get off at FB Harrison and Libertad intersection (landmarks on your right: 7-11; Andoks; Chowking).
• From Libertad St. walk one block towards 7-11 Roxas Blvd. passing by the old DFA bdlg., cross the strret toward Jollibee/ Cuneta Astrodome, continue walking along the service road until your reach the Seafront Compound along Roxas Blvd.
• Or take a tricycle and get off at Cuneta Astrodome, then proceed walking along the service road until you reach the Seafront Compound along Roxas Blvd.

OPTION #2

• From city of Manila, i.e Manumento station: get off at Grill Puyat (Buendia) station.
• Take a bus bound for Baclaran/ Coastal/ Southmall.
• Get off at Roxas Blvd. corner Libertad St. (Landmark:HK Sun Plaza).
• Take the pedestrian overpass in front of HK Sun Plaza to get to the order side of Roxas Blvd. and walk towars Seafronts Compound.

BY PUBLIC JEEP VIA MANILA CITY HALL/ INTRAMUROS

• Ride any Jeepney going to Baclaran (via Mabini route).
• Get off at F.B. Harrison corner Libertad St. (landmark on your right: Chowking).
• From libertad St. walk one block towards 7-11 Roxas Blvd. passing by the old DFA bdlg., cross the street towars Jollibee/ Cuneta Astrodome, continue walking along the service road, until your reach the Seafront Compound along Roxas Blvd.

BY BUS FROM AYALA AVENUE/ GIL PUYAT (BUENDIA)/ TAFT

• From Ayala Avenue/ Gil Puyat (Buendia) /Taft intersection, you can board a bus bound for Baclaran/ Coastal/ Southmall (fare: P 11.00).
• Get off at Roxas Blvd. corner Libertad St. (Landmark: HK Sun Plaza).
• Take the pedestrian overpass in front of HK Sun Plaza to get to the order side of Roxas Blvd. and walk towars Seafronts Compound.

BY FX FROM US EMBASSY COMPOUND

• Take the Sucat-bound FX and it will pass by Libertad St.
• Get off at Roxas Blvd. corner Libertad St.
• Take the pedestrian overpass in front of HK Sun Plaza to get to the order side of Roxas Blvd. and walk towars Seafronts Compound.

BY PRIVATE CAR OR METERED TAXI FROM US EMBASSY

• From US Embassy, drive south-bound along Roxas Blvd.
• Take the Roxas Blvd.- Gil Puyat/ Buendia fly-over going to Baclaran.
• Drive straight towards Baclaran (Note: DO NOT GET ON THE EDSA_ ROXAs BOULEVARD FLYOVER).
• Before the Roxas Blvd. - EDSA intersection, take the U-turn slot on your left.
• Drive straight towards Seafront compound along Roxas Blvd.

FROM SOUTHERN QUEZON CITY & MANDALUYONG

BY TRAIN VIA BLUE LINE (F. MRT-3)

• From Southern Quezon City and Mandaluyong City: get off at the MRT-3 Taft Avenue station (last South station).
• Ride a jeepney with the route M. Reyes/ Holiday Plaza
• Get off somewhere close by FB Harrison and Libertad St. intersection (landmarks on your right: 7-11;Andoks;Chowking).
• From Libertad St. walk one block towards 7-11 Roxas Blvd. passing by the old DFA bdlg., cross the strret toward Jollibee/ Cuneta Astrodome, continue walking along the service road until your reach the Seafront Compound along Roxas Blvd.
• Or from Taft Avenue MRT Station, take the tricycle (Fare: P 50.00), ask the driver to take you to Cuneta Astrodome, then walk towards Seafront Compound.

BY PRIVATE CAR OR METERED TAXI FROM EDSA

• Drive along EDSA headed towards Roxas Blvd. or SM Mall of Asia.
• Turn-right at Roxas Blvd. and drive straight towards Seafront Compound.

 FROM SOUTH (PARANAQUE CITY and Taguig)

BY BUS OR FX FROM LAS PINAS-LAWTON/STA.CRUZ/CAVITE

• Take the buses or FX coming from Las Pinas/Sta. Cruz/Cavite bound for Lawton that passes by Libertad St.
• Get off at Cuneta Astrodome along Roxas Blvd and walk towards Seafront compound.

BY PRIVATE CAR OR METERED TAXI VIA MAGALLANES INTERCHANGE

• From SLEX, drive North towards the Magallanes Interchange.
• Turn-left at EDSA and drive West towards Roxas Blvd./SM Mall of Asis.
• Turn-right at Roxas Boulevard.
• Drive straight to Seafront Compound.

BY PRIVATE CAR OR METERED TAXI VIA NAIA

• From Airport road, turn right at Roxas Blvd.
• Take the Roxas Blvd-EDSA flyover.
• Drive straight towards Seafront Compound.