The Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) is a government-initiated central database platform. It is borne out of Republic Act No. 11055, otherwise known as the Philippine Identification System Act. Based on a variety of primary and secondary IDs, the system provides a standard and official proof of identity for all Filipino citizens and long-time residents to aid in public and private sector transactions. PhilSys removes the guesswork in deciding which ID/s will be accepted by banks and other official platforms. It also saves us the time and effort to create additional IDs as backup documentation.
Moreover, PhilSys serves as a foundational digital ID for all Filipinos, especially for vulnerable groups that require government support the most. This is especially relevant during the pandemic where private and public aid is best provided digitally.
Taking pride in its Privacy by Design principle, PhilSys utilizes the latest technology to verify one’s identity accurately while ensuring data privacy and accountability. So while PhilSys makes services more accessible, its infrastructure also provides greater control and transparency over the use of our data.
Creating a PhilSys ID is completely free and highly encouraged. More government agencies and institutions will be accepting PhilSys as an official ID in the coming years, and this database will be used as the basis for the issuance of government services. Get a head start and register in three easy steps:
STEP 1: Fill up the Online Application Form
Register here to get started on the online PhilSys ID application. The site will ask for your mobile number and provide a one-time pin (OTP) to secure the new entry. The form asks for basic demographic information. Be sure to answer as completely and accurately as possible.
The last task is to book an in-person appointment to collect your biometric data to complete your application. Simply choose available time slots from the list of available registration centers nearest you.
STEP 2: Submit Biometric Information
Go to the appointed time slot to have your photograph taken, as well as an iris and fingerprints scan. Be sure to bring any of the primary documents as supporting information. Note that these documents must be issued by the corresponding official government agencies to be considered:
- DFA-issued Philippine Passport or ePassport
- GSIS or SSS-issued Unified Multi-purpose Identification Card (UMID)
- LTO-issued Driver’s License or Student’s Permit
- PSA-issued Certificate of Live Birth and one government-issued document to ascertain identity with full name, signature or thumbprint, and a front-facing photograph.
Those who lack the primary documents stated above may opt to use secondary documents to prove their identities, such as NBI clearance, SSS ID, Voter’s IDs, and many others. A full list of IDs can be found here.
STEP 3: Wait for Delivery
The PhilSys official number and ID will be delivered to your registered address. Be sure to keep your transaction slip and an ID for verification purposes. For those who aren’t always home, be sure to leave an authorization letter so that someone may receive the ID on your behalf.
The standard lead time for the IDs is approximately 4-6 months from the in-person appointment. However, the long wait will be worth it – for Philippine residents, the PhilSys ID has no expiry, and the first ID is free.
