THE Philippine Statistics Authority Central Visayas (PSA 7) warned those involved in illegal reproduction of digital national IDs on materials like Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) cards of serious penalties.

Although the PSA 7 has yet to apprehend any violators, the agency is closely monitoring activities and potential violations.

In an interview with MyTVCebu on Wednesday, September 17, Engr. Felixberto Sato Jr., Supervising Statistical Specialist for PSA 7, reiterated the agency’s stance against the illegal practice, citing an advisory issued by National Statistician Claire Dennis Mapa.

The advisory makes clear that printing the Digital National ID on PVC cards or any physical medium is strictly prohibited under Republic Act No. 11055, also known as the Philippine Identification System Act, he said.

Individuals found guilty of such violations face imprisonment ranging from three to six years and fines between PHP 1 million and PHP 3 million.

Additionally, organizations that refuse to accept the digital version of the National ID as valid proof of identity without a legitimate reason will be fined P500,000.

PSA 7 has been urging the public to avoid engaging with businesses or individuals offering unauthorized printing services for the digital national ID. The agency emphasizes that such printed IDs will not be accepted for any official transactions.

The agency encourages the public to use the electronic version of the National ID, or ePhilID, which can be downloaded from the PSA's website or through the eGovPH app.

This version, which can be laminated, holds the same legal validity as the physical national ID card. After completing identity verification steps, such as facial recognition, a portable document format (PDF) of the ID becomes available for download.

PSA has also stressed that government and private institutions are required to honor the Digital National ID. The agency warns that institutions failing to recognize the ID without justification will face penalties.

PSA has urged the public to report unauthorized printing of the Digital National ID by emailing [email protected] or calling the National ID hotline at 1388.

To verify a digital national ID's authenticity, PSA provides an online platform where users can scan a QR code. The system displays demographic information, including a front-facing photo, ID number, and other personal details, to confirm validity.

As delays in physical National ID production continue due to a terminated contract with the supplier, PSA 7 is encouraging the use of the digital and ePhilID versions, which remain fully valid for all transactions.(MyTVCebu)

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• #Philippines Statistics Authority
• #PSA 7
• #National ID
• #Fake IDs