National ID services expand in Guimaras

Access to valid proof of identity is becoming more attainable for Guimarasnons as the Philippine Statistics Authority Guimaras Provincial Statistical Office, in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, continues to bring National ID-related services to communities across the province.

Under the Philippine Identification System, the National ID is available in card, paper, and digital formats, all of which are valid proof of identity and age, subject to authentication.

The PSA also conducts mobile registration in far-flung areas, supporting house-to-house and community-based delivery of National ID services.

For January and February, PSA Guimaras reported a combined total of 1,675 National ID paper forms issued, 324 Transaction Reference Numbers retrieved, and six individuals assisted in generating their Digital National ID.

“These services were largely accessed by beneficiaries of key social protection programs, particularly the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and Social Pension (SocPen), highlighting the importance of inter-agency collaboration in reaching vulnerable sectors,” Provincial Statistics Officer Nelida B. Losare said.

In January, 4Ps beneficiaries recorded the highest availment, with 665 forms issued and 136 TRN retrievals, while SocPen beneficiaries accounted for 236 forms issued.

By February, SocPen beneficiaries took the lead, with 406 forms issued, surpassing 4Ps beneficiaries at 368, reflecting growing demand among senior citizens for accessible identification services.

The DSWD’s Social Pension program provides monthly assistance to indigent senior citizens, making valid identification important for access to benefits and related services.

“While no availment from other program categories were recorded during the period, both PSA and DSWD continue to strengthen outreach efforts to ensure wider awareness and inclusion,” Losare said.

Beyond the figures, each form issued and TRN retrieved represents a step toward easier access to essential services, from claiming pensions and government assistance to completing everyday transactions that require valid identification.

The Digital National ID may be accessed through the eGovPH app and carries the same validity and functionality as the card and paper formats.

“The increase in Digital National ID assistance, from 1a in January to 5 in February, also signals a gradual shift toward digital inclusion, even in geographically isolated communities,” Losare said.

Losare said sustained collaboration between PSA Guimaras and DSWD remains key to ensuring that every Guimarasnon is recognized, included, and empowered through the National ID system.

“Because in the end, access to identity is access to opportunity,” Losare said.