Senator Win Gatchalian filed a resolution seeking to conduct an inquiry into the continuous spread of text scams, which remain prevalent despite the enactment of the SIM Card Registration Act in 2022.
The senator underscored the need to strengthen cybersecurity to combat scammers.
“Given the crucial role of technology in nation-building, it is essential to strengthen cybersecurity and verification measures and implement additional safeguards to combat the continuous proliferation of text scams in the country,” Gatchalian stressed, as he filed Resolution No. 1324 seeking to conduct an inquiry regarding the issue.
Gatchalian, however, opposed the proposal for in-person SIM registration, stating that it would be inconvenient for consumers.
Globe Telecom, Inc. general counsel Froilan Castelo also expressed opposition to face-to-face SIM card registration.
“Requiring mandatory appearance for SIM registration runs contrary to the principle of universal access. People from the countryside cannot and will not be able to do face-to-face registration because of the distance and challenges to travel,” Froilan said.
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) earlier stated that it would review proposals to amend the SIM Card Registration Act, with a focus on tightening registration rules.
Palace Press Officer Usec. Claire Castro expressed openness to amending the law to require in-person registration, emphasizing that such an amendment should be considered.