DICT rejects SIM registration extension request

The Department of Information and Communications Technology denied the request to extend SIM registration.

File photo: SIM card

The SIM registration deadline is still on April 26

The DICT said in a Facebook post that it has received and acknowledged the call of Public Telecommunication Entities to extend the April deadline for mandatory SIM registration.

However, at this point, there is no extension of SIM registration, the DICT said.

With the 26 April 2023 registration deadline drawing near, we encourage everyone to register to promote the responsible use of SIMs and provide law enforcement agencies the necessary tools to crack down on perpetrators who use SIMs for their crimes, consistent with the declared policy of the law, it added.

The department did not state the reason behind its decision to reject the extension request.

DICT statement on Request of Public Telecommunication Entities for SIM Registration Period Extension

It reminded the public that failing to comply with the registration will lead to the deactivation of their SIMs and eSIMs. Thus, it noted that they will be unable to receive and send texts and calls and access mobile applications and digital wallets.

“The DICT reiterates that the SIM Registration Act places primacy on the fundamental rights of Filipinos and is replete with safeguards to ensure the confidentiality and security of user data,” DICT said.

“The DICT is one with PTEs in ensuring that Filipinos can enjoy safe and secure mobile phone services through the holistic implementation of the SIM Registration Act,” it added.

Recently, a group filed a petition before the Supreme Court to declare the SIM Registration Act unconstitutional. They also want a temporary restraining order to stop the law’s implementation.

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