Kids aged 5 and up can now register for a National ID!

Philippine Statistics Authority just announced that PhilSys ID registration opens to children 5 years old and above.

File photo: National ID

Can be used for bank transactions or school enrollment

The national ID from PhilSys shall be a valid proof of identity that shall be a means of simplifying public and private transactions, enrollment in schools, and opening of bank accounts. It was signed into law by President Rodrigo R. Duterte in 2018, Republic Act 11055, or the Philippine Identification System Act

Reportedly, the goal is to boost government efficiency in providing social services where people will only need to present one ID during a transaction. Now, even kids can now have their own national ID that won't expire.

According to the government agency, parents or guardians must bring the following requirements for the child's registration: child's birth certificate, school ID, and a valid government ID of the parent or guardian. 

Due to movement restrictions caused by Covid-19, the PSA established an online registration for Step 1. This initial step involves the gathering of demographic information like name, gender, birth date, birthplace, age, permanent and current address, blood type, citizenship, and marital status.

After completing Step 1, registrants shall book an appointment for the Step 2 biometrics phase. Iris scan, fingerprints, and front-facing photographs will be recorded at registration centers.

Finally, Philippine Postal Corporation will deliver the national ID cards and the entire process is free of charge. In their recent press release, the PSA said that over 3 million national IDs have already been shipped to date.

The agency also announced that they are planning to launch a mobile ID, which will be a digital alternative to the national ID.

Sources: Philippine News Agency, Inquirer