The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) is working on integrating the national identification (ID) authentication service with local government units (LGUs) in Western Visayas.

PSA focal person for the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) in Western Visayas, Jared Barile, said they met with officials of Escalante City in Negros Occidental on February 7, the first LGU to respond to their call for the integration.

The integration enhances identity verification, streamlines service delivery, ensures stronger data security, reduces fraud and extends inclusive access and seamless interoperability.

“Once an LGU is integrated, we will provide them access to our ID authentication services. Their clients can make transactions as long as they have their national ID number, even without their ID. They only provide their demographic details and scan their biometric information for verification of their identity,” Barile said in an interview.

The integration is also open to other government agencies, private organizations and financial institutions in the region to improve service delivery, strengthen data security and enhance inclusivity in the region.

“Those interested can get in touch with PSA Regional Statistical Services Office VI through email rsso06@psa.gov.ph or they can visit our office at J. Villanueva Building, Iznart Street, Iloilo City, or register online through the eVerify portal at https://everify.gov.ph,” Barile said.

As of February 10, the PSA has recorded over 6.9 million registrants in Western Visayas, consisting of 545,692 in Aklan; 541,275 in Antique; 682,212 in Capiz; 159,509 in Guimaras; 2,212,006 in Iloilo; and 2,779,996 in Negros Occidental.

The PSA also said that as of December 2024, a total of 6.61 million have national ID numbers, while 5.4 million polycarbonate cards have been delivered and 2.62 million IDs were printed and issued in paper form. (PNA)