SSS urges members to apply for UMID

MANILA, Philippines - Stepping up its drive against fraud, the Social Security System (SSS) urged member-employees in large private companies to apply for the Unified Multi-Purpose Identification System (UMID).

SSS officer-in-charge Edgar Solilapsi enjoined companies with at least 100 employees to set an appointment with the SSS branch nearest them for the mobile UMID data capture services, which is offered free of charge.

Data capture involves registration of the members’ demographic and biometric data such as their basic information, photo and fingerprint scans. These will then be used to verify their identities against a massive ID database to protect the UMID system from fraudulent applications.

“The use of biometric technology alerts the SSS of members who applied for the UMID card using a different identity. This helps thwart attempts to defraud the SSS and other government agencies of undeserved benefits and services using the UMID card,” Solilapsi said.

The UMID system was created in 2005 under Executive Order (E.O.) 420 to streamline and enhance the ID systems of government agencies while the

SSS was designated as the system’s lead agency. Other participating agencies include the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF) and the National Statistics Office.

“Since SSS operating hours usually overlap with regular business hours, our employed members often need a leave from work to go to an SSS office and apply for the UMID card. With the mobile ID data capture services, they can now apply for the UMID card right in their office premises, saving them time and money, while companies avoid losing a day’s worth of employee productivity,” Solilapsi said.

The SSS also offers on-site data capture services that are set up in barangay halls for self-employed and voluntary members during SSS information and coverage drives. Barangay captains and local officials, especially those from remote areas, can also request their nearest SSS branch for on-site UMID data capture services. They must, however, include a list of resident SSS members who will avail of the service.