The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said it is empowering young Filipinos with secure and valid identification through the Digital National ID.
The Digital National ID is the digital version of the National ID and can be accessed via the eGovPH app.
“The introduction of the Digital National ID is a game-changer as Filipinos can now easily and readily access their National ID at their fingertips. This is especially beneficial for the youth who often have difficulties obtaining their first government-issued ID to unlock employment opportunities and other services,” said PSA Undersecretary Claire Dennis Mapa.
“Today, we see young Filipinos reaping the benefit of being registered to the National ID System. By equipping the youth with the Digital National ID, we are also empowering the country’s key agents of nation-building in digital transformation,” he said.
Brian Catiis, a student from Malabon City, was able to open a mobile wallet account and claim financial assistance for his studies using the Digital National ID.
“I was able to use my Digital National ID to verify my GCash account and to claim financial assistance from the government for us students,” he said.
Catiis said he plans to use the Digital National ID in future transactions. “It can really be used because it’s a valid ID for transactions, like applying for a job,” he said.
Having the Digital National ID also allowed Pamela Elipian, a student in Bohol province, to claim money at a remittance center.
Elipian said her Digital National ID was accepted as valid identification during her transaction at the remittance center.
“I was able to use my Digital National ID to get money [at the remittance center]. I was very happy when they accepted my Digital National ID,” she said.
Assistant Secretary Rosalinda P. Bautista, deputy national statistician of the PhilSys Registry Office (PRO), encouraged the public to download their Digital National ID.
“We call on all Filipinos, especially the youth, to maximize their Digital National ID and present it in transactions requiring proof of identity. It is easy to download, free-of-charge, and can be conveniently stored on a mobile device,” Bautista said.
Data from the PSA showed that as of Dec. 30, 2024, about 84,075,838 Digital National IDs were accessible via the eGovPH app.