ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo (Ellson Quismorio/ MANILA BULLETIN)

House Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo believes that the national identification (ID) card system--once properly implemented--can help stop the falsification of subscribers identity module or SIM card identities. 

Tulfo made this remark amid the reported frequency of the use of fake ID cards during the SIM registration process. SIM registration is mandated by Republic Act (RA) No.11055. 

These fake identities from the SIM registration process are viewed as a security threat to both individuals and organizations in the country, as well as potential sources of cybercrime and fraudulent transactions. 

“The issuance of national ID cards to Filipino citizens and resident aliens, as mandated by law, will give the service providers an easy access to government database for the truthful profile of bona fide holders who apply for SIM registration,” explained Tulfo, also a popular broadcast journalist.

There have been earlier reports of a successful registration of a SIM card using an image of a smiling monkey. This shows the vulnerabilities in the online users’ profiling system.

Tulfo said that accepting assorted identification cards, including a certification from barangay chiefs, for SIM registration allows ample room for cheaters and identity thief to thread. 

“A single ID system, encompassing all Filipinos, is the key to ensuring the integrity of the SIM registration,” he stressed.

Republic Act (RA) No.11055, which calls for the mandatory implementation of the national ID system, aims to provide a secure and reliable means of identifying individuals across various sectors, including telecommunications. It is seen as a crucial step in addressing identity-related issues and enhancing national security.

“We support the call of my fellow legislators for telcos to take stringent measures in registering SIMs and help the law enforcers in running after online fraudsters, but I also appeal for the speedy implementation of RA 11055, because, in my view, the use of national IDs instills confidence in our pursuit of fool-proof SIM registration,” Tulfo said.

“In conclusion, the call to fast-track the implementation of the national ID system, as advocated by Globe, does not only offer a far-reaching impact on various aspects of daily life, from simplifying bureaucratic procedures to enhancing national security efforts, but also serves as a valuable tool in the fight against cybercrimes by curbing the spread of fake SIM identities,” he added.