14 THE PASSPORT, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA) proudly celebrates its 18th anniversary, marking nearly two decades of unwavering service to the people of Jamaica and steadfast commitment to safeguarding the nation’s borders. PICA continues to be a national pillar that embraces modernisation, is customer-focused and mission driven. STRENGTHENING SERVICE ACROSS JAMAICA AND BEYOND PICA’s extensive network of branches islandwide, including full-service locations, ensures accessibility and convenience for Jamaicans across the country. Supported by competent, professional staff, PICA delivers excellent customer experiences, closely tracked and measured through annual customer satisfaction surveys. The Agency continues to emphasise its expedited passport services, recognising how vital timely travel is for Jamaicans at home and abroad. This is complemented by PICA’s robust suite of online services, which provide secure, user-friendly options for applications, renewals, and appointment scheduling. Through strategic partnerships with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade (MFAFT), PICA brings its services directly to the Jamaican diaspora. From London, Birmingham, and Manchester to Toronto, New York, and other major cities, these outreach initiatives reinforce the Agency’s commitment to serving Jamaicans wherever they may reside. WELCOMING THE WORLD TO JAMAICA PICA’s immigration services continue to welcome an increasing number of passengers through Jamaica’s three international airports. With professional, courteous officers and the growing use of technology, including but not limited to the Electronic C5 Form, kiosks, and automated e-Gates, the use of the electronic passenger declaration form as well as the automated border control self-serving kiosks and e-Gates PICA facilitates seamless yet secure travel for Jamaicans returning home, as well as visitors arriving for vacations, business, employment, education, and sports. PUTTING PEOPLE AND COMMUNITY FIRST PICA is equally committed to its people and the wider community. From in-house wellness initiatives and continuous staff development to its active corporate social responsibility efforts, the Agency plays a meaningful role in national growth. PICA’s participation in environmental initiatives and green projects further underscores its dedication to sustainable development. PURSUING EXCELLENCE AND GLOBAL STANDARDS PICA’s resilience and dedication to excellence are evident in its achievements. The Agency earned ISO 9001 certification in 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating its robust quality management systems. This commitment was reaffirmed with recertification in 2023. In 2024, PICA further strengthened Jamaica’s global standing by joining the ICAO Public Key Directory (PKD) to support its new e-Passport, aligning Jamaica with international security and identity standards. LOOKING AHEAD As PICA celebrates 18 years of impact and service, it does so with pride and optimism. The Agency remains steadfast in its mission: to secure Jamaica’s future while providing a seamless, dignified experience to every citizen and visitor. With a strong foundation and an eye on continuous improvement, PICA is ready to meet the future with the same passion, professionalism, and integrity that have defined its journey so far. PICA celebrates 18 years of service, innovation and national impact ADVERTORIAL Major General (ret’d) Antony Anderson, Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States of America, (right) greets Prime Minister Alix Didier FilsAimé of the Republic of Haiti. The occasion was a reception in honour of the visiting Prime Minster, at the Embassy of Haiti in Washington, DC, on Tuesday, July 15. Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Major General (ret’d) Antony Anderson (at centre) shares a light moment with Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé of Haiti, during a reception in Mr. Fils-Aimé’s honour, at the Embassy of Haiti in Washington, DC, on Tuesday, July 15. At right is His Excellency Lionel Delatour, Ambassador of the Republic of Haiti to the United States. PHOTOS BY DERRICK SCOTT THE WEEKLY GLEANER | JULY 24 - AUGUSt 24, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS
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