Sometimes, one is better than two or more.
The persistent problem of excessive documentation requirements has posed challenges for many individuals, whether seeking government assistance or conducting legal transactions daily.
There is no need to produce many valid identification cards when required. One will do.
The Philippine Identification System Act or Republic Act 11055 mandates a unified national identification system.
This simplified the process by issuing a single identification card for acceptable use for various types of transactions.
Low-Quality Cards
The One-ID system is convenient but not exactly impressive.
In an interview with Kim, an individual who received hers in the first batch of the Philippine National ID (PhilID), she expressed frustration regarding its quality.
“Gasgasado na nak nawong ha ID in just a week or so pa ngan la adto. Since an national ID la nak mayda na valid ID, waray ak makakagamit nak gcash. Kay everytime ko gin veverify, di na work tungod nga na gasgas nak nawong” she stated.
“Mayda na damage, didi han part nak irong bagat nalalaknit hiya” according to Melissa, also a PhilID holder.
Ana, another ID holder also shares the same sentiment saying that hers had already faded.
Materials Changed
As it enters its sixth year of implementation, it's unsurprising that concerns about damages, loss, errors, and the likes are surfacing.
According to the Philippine Statistical Authority (PSA), initial releases of the ID encountered issues because of the materials used.
After receiving extensive feedback from the citizens, this concern was promptly addressed by the PSA.
The subsequent batches of IDs are now significantly more durable following a change in the materials used.
While the replacement of the ID with damage is free. It can be requested through the PSA Regional Statistical Services Office (RSSO). However, PSA announced there is currently no advisory regarding lost IDs.
Registration Centers
For Other Concerns, PSA said citizens can also visit the nearest Fixed Registration Center.
In Tacloban City, it is located at the 2nd Floor of the Gaisano Capital Building, Real St., open every Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
On other matters, users raised several concerns regarding its features and validity.
“Nagagamitan ko ha mga legal transactions, dire la poyde ha bangko kay waray signature. Naaro pa hira other valid ID na may signature, an iba dre man nascan,” Ana stated.
Digital Authentication
While it is true that there are no handwritten signatures in the PhilID, according to PSA, this supports the PhilSys' goal for a digital, interoperable identity verification platform.
Additionally, alternatives like thumbprints are incorporated instead of signatures to counter inefficiencies and fraud risks.
With the shift to digital systems, the PhilSys prioritizes physical security features, digital authentication, and biometric verification for utmost security.
Refusal To Honor
PSA emphasizes that PhilIDs being denied or not honored is a serious violation of the PhilSys Act.
The PhilID must be accepted and recognized in all transactions requiring proof of identity, subject to authentication.
Section 19 of the PhilSys Act imposes a fine of P500,000 on any person or entity who unjustly refuses to acknowledge the PhilID as the official identification of the holder.
PSA continues to urge the public to take their concerns to their office, especially concerns about their ID being denied.
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