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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Launch of digital senior citizens ID a boon for the elderly--Romualdez

Launch of digital senior citizens ID a boon for the elderly--Romualdez

Published Aug 18, 2025 09:58 am

At A Glance

  • House Speaker Martin Romualdez foresees a faster, safer, and "more dignified" delivery of service to elderly Filipinos with the launch of the digital National Senior Citizen ID (NSCID) through the eGovPH app.
(Unsplash)
(Unsplash)


House Speaker Martin Romualdez foresees a faster, safer, and "more dignified" delivery of service to elderly Filipinos with the launch of the digital National Senior Citizen ID (NSCID) through the eGovPH app.
“Today’s technology has made life easier with just a tap on our phones. The same speed and efficiency should also apply to the delivery of government services, especially for our senior citizens who deserve comfort and dignity in their twilight years,” Romualdez said in a statement Monday, Aug. 18.
According to him, the digital NSCID is not just an ID card but a reflection of President Marcos' commitment to modernize governance and bring public service closer to every Filipino.
“Sa pamamagitan ng eGovPH app, agad na makikita ng ating mga senior citizen ang kanilang mga benepisyo at serbisyo—hindi na kailangan ng mahabang pila o dagdag na abala,” Romualdez said.
(Through the eGovPH app, our senior citizens can immediately see their benefits and services—no need for long lines or additional hassle.)
The Speaker also highlighted the measure’s protective value. “Because the information is already in the app, seniors are less likely to be victimized by fixers or scammers pretending to ‘assist’ them."
"Wala nang bibilis pa sa tiyak at ligtas na eGovPH app (There's nothing faster than a sure and safe eGovPH app),” he added.
The initiative, jointly launched by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC), opens a new chapter in streamlining access to senior citizens’ rights and privileges, such as discounts on food, medicine, transport, healthcare, and other essentials.
It is expected to benefit 8.4 million senior citizens already registered for the national ID, with 1.2 million accounts activated on eGovPH to date. Those with a national ID and an active eGovPH account will automatically have their digital NSCID generated—no extra forms or paperwork needed.
Romualdez urged both the DICT and private sector partners to strengthen internet connectivity nationwide so that seniors can easily use their digital IDs wherever they are.
“Connectivity is the backbone of inclusivity. Better internet means better access—not just for our seniors but also for students, workers, farmers, and entrepreneurs who must be part of our modern digital economy,” the Speaker emphasized.
He assured that the House of Representatives will continue to support laws and funding that expand digital infrastructure and improve services across all sectors of society.
Romualdez also called for comprehensive digital literacy programs in partnership with local governments and communities to help senior citizens adjust to this new chapter of digital governance.
“Digitalization will mean little if many of our seniors cannot see or feel its advantages. We must guide them, step by step, and explain the importance of this innovation,” he said.
He suggested holding information campaigns and training sessions in barangays, so seniors can learn digital skills together and foster not just familiarity with technology but also new friendships and protection against online scams.
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