Completing national ID sign-up, a challenge amid pandemic

(Photo courtesy of PhilSys-Robinsons Tagum Facebook)

DAVAO CITY – To register for the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) at this time of the Covid-19 pandemic can be considered a challenge.

At registration centers, safety and health protocols are strictly enforced to avoid Covid-19 infections.

Alex Sison recounted his feeling of accomplishment after he finished the Step 2 biometrics process at a mall here on December 5.

He capped his “achievement” with a selfie, showing other registrants in the background.

“Feeling accomplished. Registered December 5,” he posted with his photo uploaded on social media.

Sison did not have an appointment but was accommodated as some did not show up for their time slots.

“Steps 1 and 2, no hassle. I registered in less than 15 minutes,” he said.

The twelve malls here that opened for PhilSys registration cater to 180 to 200 registrants daily in compliance with the city government directive to maintain crowd control.

Wearing of masks and physical distancing must always be followed by applicants of the Philippine Identification (PhilID) or national ID.

Signed into law by President Rodrigo R. Duterte in August 2018, Republic Act 11055, or the Philippine Identification System Act, aims to establish a single national ID for all Filipinos and resident aliens.

The national ID shall be a valid proof of identity that shall be a means of simplifying public and private transactions, enrollment in schools, and the opening of bank accounts.

It also seeks to boost efficiency, especially in dealing with government agencies where people will only need to present one ID during transactions. (PNA)

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