AT A GLANCE:

The Philippine Identification System or “PhilSys” refers to a single national identification system established by the government. A Philippine Identification (PhilID) card is a non-transferrable card issued to a citizen or resident alien registered under the PhilSys. When registering under the PhilSys, it’s worth noting that the registration centers shall require the presentation of the applicant’s birth certificate.

What Is the Philippine Identification System?

Under Republic Act No. 11055, otherwise known as the Philippine Identification System Act, the State established a single national identification system known as the Philippine Identification System or PhilSys for all citizens and resident aliens of the Philippines.

Under Section 3 of the Philippine Identification System Act, the PhilSys is primarily established to provide a valid proof of identity for all citizens and resident aliens as a means of simplifying public and private transactions. It also aims to eliminate the need to present other forms of identification when transacting with the government and the private sector, subject to appropriate authentication measures based on a biometric identification system.

What does Personal Information refer to?

Personal information refers to any information from which the identity of an individual is apparent or can be reasonably and directly ascertained by the entity holding the information, or when put together with other information would directly and certainly identify an individual. In line with this, the government established the “Philippine Identification System” or the “PhilSys.” (Section 5(g) of the Philippine Identification System Act)

What are the Components of the PhilSys?

Under Section 6 of the Philippine Identification System Act the law provides that the Philippine Identification System comprises three (3) components. Those three (3) components entail the following:

1. PhilSys Number (PSN):

The PSN is a randomly generated, unique, and permanent identification number that will be assigned to every citizen or resident alien upon birth or registration by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). The PSN, in print, electronic or any other form, subject to authentication, shall be accepted as sufficient proof of identity.

2. The PhilSys Registry:

The PSA, as repository and custodian of all data, shall create and maintain a PhilSys Registry that will contain the PSN, registered records, and information of all persons registered in the PhilSys. The information on the PhilSys Registry shall be classified in a manner that allows safeguards for data privacy and security, access controls, and change management.

3. The Philippine Identification Card (PhilID ):

It is a non-transferable card issued to all citizens or resident aliens registered under the PhilSys and is subject to the guidelines issued by the PSA.

What Information Is Collected under the PhilID ?

Under Section 8 of the Philippine Identification System Act, information to be collected and stored under the PhilSys shall be limited to the following:

(a) Demographic Data

1. ) Full Name;
2. ) Sex;
3. ) Date of Birth;
4. ) Place of Birth;
5. ) Blood Type;
6. ) Address;
7. ) Filipino or Resident Alien;
8. ) Marital Status (optional);
9. ) Mobile Number (optional); and
10. ) E-mail address (optional).

(b) Biometrics Information

1. ) Front Facing Photograph;
2. ) Full set of fingerprints;
3. ) Iris scan; and
4. ) If necessary, other identifiable features of individual as may be determined in the implementing rules and regulations (IRR).

What Documents Are Required for PhilSys Registration?

The basic documentary requirements provided under Section 10 of the Philippine Identification System Act states that registration centers shall require the presentation of the applicant’s birth certificate as a basic documentary requirement for citizens seeking to register with the PhilSys.

In case of resident aliens, proof of residence in the Philippines shall be required.

On the other hand, citizens and resident aliens may be allowed to submit alternative or additional documents to facilitate easier verification of their identity. Appropriate guidelines shall likewise be issued to ensure that registration is not prohibitive or unduly restrictive.

May the PhilSys ID or PSN Be Used as Proof of Identity?

Section 12 of the Philippine Identification System Act provides that for the purpose of establishing proof of identity for transacting business with any government agency, the presentation of the PhilID or PSN shall constitute sufficient proof thereof, subject to proper authentication. Private entities are likewise mandated to accept the PhilID or PSN as valid proof of identity under the same terms and conditions as above: Provided, That when authentication cannot be performed, without any fault on the part of the cardholder or holder of a PSN, the PSA shall ensure that he or she will not be disadvantaged or prejudices thereby.

The PSA shall perform authentication of the PSN of an individual submitted by any requesting entity, in relation to his or her biometric information or demographic information.

Any requesting entity shall obtain the consent of an individual before collecting his or her identity information for the purpose of authentication. It shall inform the individual submitting his or her identity information the following details, namely: (a) the nature of the information that may be shared upon authentication, and (b) the uses to which the information received during authentication may be put by the requesting entity: Provided, That the information requested shall only be used for the purpose for which it was requested.

Where is the PhilSys ID Accepted?

Under Section 13 of the Philippine Identification System Act, the PhilID shall be honored and accepted, subject to authentication, in all transactions requiring proof or verification of citizens or resident aliens’ identity.

Take note that under the same provision it is stated that the PSN and biometrics of an individual, as authenticated through the PhilSys, shall be honored and accepted, notwithstanding the absence or non-presentation of a PhilID.

Is the PhilID Proof of Citizenship or Eligibility for benefits?

Not necessarily. Section 14 of the Philippine Identification System Act indicates that Proof of identity shall not necessarily be construed as proof of eligibility to avail of certain benefits and services which shall be determined based on applicable rules and regulations of the government authorities/agencies concerned. Issuance of the PSN and or PhilID shall not likewise be construed as inconvertible proof of citizenship.

Read also: The Philippine Statistics Authority

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Alburo Alburo and Associates Law Offices specializes in business law and labor law consulting. For inquiries regarding legal services, you may reach us at info@alburolaw.com, or dial us at (02)7745-4391/ 09175772207/ 09778050020.

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