Law Summary
Purposes and Benefits
- PhilSys provides valid proof of identity simplifying transactions with government and private sectors.
- Eliminates the need for multiple forms of identification with biometric authentication.
- Acts as a social and economic platform to facilitate service delivery, administrative governance, and business ease.
Scope and Application
- Applies to all natural persons using PhilSys Number (PSN), Philippine Identification (PhilID), or biometrics.
- Covers legal and illegal use, within and outside the Philippines.
Key Definitions
- Authentication, Biometric Information, Citizen, Resident Alien, Registration, PhilSys Registry, and others are clearly defined.
- Clarifies terms for cardholders, biometric exceptions, record history, and personal information.
Components of PhilSys
- PhilSys Number (PSN): Unique, permanent ID number issued at birth or registration.
- PhilSys Registry: Centralized, secure database managed by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
- PhilID: Non-transferable physical card issued to cardholders containing key personal information and security features.
Data Collected and Stored
- Demographic data including full name, sex, birth details, blood type, address, and optional contact information.
- Biometric data including face photo, fingerprints, iris scan; biometric exceptions apply for certain applicants.
Registration Process
- Registration required one year after effectivity, done in various authorized government offices or Philippine embassies abroad.
- Special provisions for minors, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, and those in institutions.
- Mobile registration to reach remote areas.
Documentary Requirements
- Birth certificate required for citizens; proof of residence for resident aliens.
- Alternatives allowed to avoid registration barriers.
Updating Information
- Citizens and resident aliens must update their records in case of information changes following PSA guidelines.
Authentication and Use
- PhilID or PSN recognized as valid proof of identity by government and private sectors, subject to authentication.
- Entities must obtain consent before using PhilSys information for authentication.
Transactions and Services Covered
- Use in social welfare, government benefits, electoral processes, healthcare, employment, financial transactions, and other public or private dealings.
- PSN and biometrics accepted even without presentation of PhilID.
Limitations
- Proof of identity does not equate to proof of eligibility for benefits.
- Issuance of PhilID/PSN is not conclusive proof of citizenship.
Administration and Governance
- PSA as the primary implementing agency overseeing planning, management, data governance, and security.
- Technical assistance from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).
- Dedicated office within PSA for PhilSys operations.
Policy Coordination Council
- Philsys Policy and Coordination Council (PSPCC) constituted with key government representatives.
- Ensures interoperability of technology infrastructure across agencies.
Data Protection and Privacy
- Strict restrictions on unauthorized access, disclosure, or use of personal data.
- Registered persons may access their data and record history.
- Data use limited to intended purposes.
Security Measures
- Organizational, technical, and physical safeguards mandated to protect data.
- Transparency obligations to inform individuals on use and access to their data.
- Aggregated statistical use permitted without personal identifiers.
Penal Provisions
- Fines and imprisonment penalties for refusal to accept PhilID/PSN, fraudulent use, unauthorized data access, or data breaches.
- Increased penalties for willful misconduct by government personnel.
- Perpetual disqualification from public office for offenders who are government officials.
Transitional Provisions
- PSA to synchronize existing government ID systems with PhilSys gradually.
- Implementation ensures uninterrupted public service delivery.
Information Campaign and Funding
- Public information campaigns to promote PhilSys.
- Appropriations included in the General Appropriations Act for funding.
Rules and Regulations
- PSA to issue implementing rules within 60 days after the Act’s approval.
- Guidelines for issuance, authentication, and data security to be developed collaboratively.
Legal Provisions
- Separability clause ensuring other parts of the Act remain operative if any section is invalidated.
- Repealing clause aligning existing laws with this Act.
- Effective 15 days after publication in official gazette or newspaper of general circulation.