‘National ID to boost bank access for the poor’

MANILA, Philippines — The rollout of the national ID system in the provinces will help poor people in rural areas during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, according to the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines.

ULAP president and Quirino Gov. Dakila Carlo Cua said the ID system would improve access to banking and financial services.

“With a national ID, more Filipinos will be able to open bank accounts and have access to financial services like credit or government aid programs,” Cua said.

He stressed the need for people to have their own bank accounts to minimize physical interactions.

“It is imperative for the government to fast-track the rollout of the national ID to in order for more Filipinos to open bank accounts,” Cua said.

The government is set to complete the rollout of the national ID within three years.

The Philippine Statistics Authority signed a P3.4-billion contract with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas for the printing of the physical blank IDs.

Republic Act 11055 or the Philippine Identification System Act mandates the establishment of an ID system for all citizens and resident aliens.