The Philippines has embarked on a significant initiative to streamline its identification system, and the cornerstone of this effort is the Philippine Identification System or PhilSys. As a Filipino citizen, I decided to register for this national identification, commonly known as PhilID, to experience firsthand the process and benefits it offers.

What is PhilSys?

PhilSys is a government program aimed at providing a unified and streamlined identification system for all citizens and resident aliens in the Philippines. At its core is the PhilID, a secure and verifiable identification card that consolidates various personal information and serves as a reliable proof of identity.

In 2019, the PhilID was enacted via PhilSys Act (Republic Act 11055). The intention is to establish a single national identification system for all Filipino citizens and resident aliens of the Philippines for the purpose of promoting seamless and efficient delivery of government service, streamlining bureaucracy, and enhancing administrative governance, among others.

With the Phil ID, any cardholder can now transact with various government agencies such as SSS, GSIS, BIR, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, etc. using just a single ID (replacing current IDs such as UMID, Postal ID, Voter’s ID, etc.).

PhilSys Registration

While online registration is an option, I was fortunate to discover that a PhilSys Registration Center had opened in Vista Mall Taguig in September 2022 (now closed). This prompted me to personally visit the center and undergo the registration process. Here's a glimpse of my experience:

Smooth Process at Vista Mall Taguig

Registration Form: The process kicked off with filling out a registration form, providing essential personal details such as name, address, and contact information.

Biometrics: Subsequently, the registration involved capturing biometric information, including fingerprints and a facial image. This step ensures the accuracy and uniqueness of the individual's identification.

Photographs: Front-facing photograph of myself and an iris scan.

Efficiency: The entire process surprisingly took only 10-15 minutes. The efficiency of the staff and the well-organized setup contributed to a hassle-free experience.

EPhilID - Early 2023

Approximately three months after my registration, I received an exciting update. PhilSys introduced the concept of an ePhilID, a digital version of the identification card. Here's what transpired:

Personalized Paper Copy

The ePhilID featured all my personal details and a unique QR code, serving as an added layer of authentication.

To my convenience, the ePhilID was delivered straight to my house via PhilPost, making the entire process seamless.

I Received My PhilSys ID

In November 2023, a courier surprised me with an envelope from PhilSys. Upon opening it, I was delighted to find the original PVC copy of my PhilID.

ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA

From my initial registration to the final receipt of my PhilSys ID, the entire journey took approximately a year. The government's effort to implement a comprehensive identification system was evident in the seamless process, efficient personnel, and the convenience of home delivery.

As a Filipino citizen, holding the PhilID not only symbolizes my national identity but also represents a commitment to a more efficient and secure future for identification in the Philippines.

List of Valid IDs in the Philippines (Primary)

Philippine Passport from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
Driver’s License (student, non-professional, and professional) from Land Transportation Office (LTO)
National ID (PhilID) from Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)
GSIS or SSS-issued Unified Multi-purpose Identification Card (UMID)
PhilHealth ID (digitized PVC)
Digitized Postal ID from Philippine Postal Corporation or PHLPost
Voter’s ID or Voter's Certificate from Commission on Election (COMELEC)
NBI Clearance from the National Bureau of Investigation
Senior Citizen ID from Local Government Unit (LGU)
OWWA ID from Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)
Persons with Disabilities (PWD) ID from Local Government Unit (LGU)

See full list of Valid IDs in the Philippines

I Finally Got My PhilSys National ID!