Now, anyone can easily verify the authenticity of Philippine identification (PhilID), or national ID cards.
The Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) authentication services are now accessible to the public, making it easier and faster to verify the identification of PhilID and ePhilID holders.
PhilSys Check, which was initially limited to a few banks during the pilot test run, is now accessible to everyone via a web browser on a computer, laptop, or smartphone at verify.philsys.gov.ph.
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), PhilSys Check serves as a crucial deterrent against fraudulent activities.
PhilSys Check uses the personalized digital signature embedded in the QR code feature on the back of the PhilID and ePhilID.
Upon scanning, the result will display "PhilID or ePhilID has been verified" if the QR code contains a valid digital signature, or "Deactivated card" if the PhilID or ePhilID is inactive.
Moreover, it will indicate "QR Code could not be read" if it is damaged, tampered with, or not associated with the PhilID or ePhilID.
However, PhilSys Check is unavailable for access without an internet connection.
“As a digital identification system, PhilSys moves past traditional ways of verifying identity such as handwritten signatures or identification cards that can easily be faked,” the PSA said.
Meanwhile, some Civil Registry System outlets in Metro Manila, such as the Central Outlet in East Avenue, Quezon City, have introduced biometric authentication procedures for PhilID and ePhilID holders who are seeking civil registry documents.
This involves fingerprint scanning using biometric authentication devices for real-time matching with the PhilSys Registry.
“The wider implementation of these authentication services will bring us closer to realizing the goal of PhilSys—seamless and targeted delivery of service, prevention of fraudulent transactions and misrepresentations, strengthening financial inclusion, and ease of doing business among many others,” PSA Undersecretary Claire Dennis S. Mapa said.
As of Jan. 25, 2024, about 83,108,610 Filipinos have successfully registered to PhilSys.