Philippines Updates ID Law to Enhance Data Privacy

Published Date : 7/8/2025 

A Filipino senator has proposed amending the Philippine Identification System Act to address data privacy risks and enhance security measures for the national ID system, aiming to prevent identity theft and unauthorized access. 

Senator Panfilo 'Ping' Lacson has introduced a bill to amend the Philippine Identification System Act, Act 11055, in response to growing concerns over data privacy and security vulnerabilties. The proposed changes aim to modernize the national ID system, which has faced criticism for its susceptibility to fraud and misuse. According to a Senate statement, the amendment would help sanitize the ID system by ensuring only eligible individuals can register, thereby strengthening its integrity. n nLacson highlighted that over the years, many individuals, particularly those involved in Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations, have registered for national IDs through irregular means. This has raised alarms about the system's reliability. The senator emphasized that the new measures would address these issues by reducing the risk of identity theft and unauthorized access. n nA key component of the proposed amendment is the removal of visible printed numbers on the national ID card, such as the PhilSys number (PSN) and other biographical details. These details are often targeted by fraudsters, who can easily copy them for malicious purposes. Instead, the plan is to encode these numbers in biometric chips or QR codes that can be scanned for verification. This shift would limit access to sensitive information, ensuring only authorized parties can retrieve it through regulated authentication processes. n nLacson explained, 'By doing this, access to the PSN will be strictly limited to authorized parties, who must follow regulated authentication procedures in compliance with current privacy laws and data protection standards.' He cited an example from 2024, when the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) issued a public warning about unauthorized individuals approaching cardholders to take photos of their IDs in exchange for cash. This practice, he argued, underscores the urgent need for stronger safeguards. n nData breaches and identity theft incidents have surged in the Philippines in recent years. In 2023, 1,597 ID theft cases were reported, marking a 13.9% increase from the previous year. Over 315,000 identity credentials were compromised within the first half of 2024, according to cybersecurity reports. In response, the country has partnered with global organizations to bolster its digital security framework. n nBeyond identity theft, Lacson warned that visible ID numbers could enable unauthorized monitoring and profiling. By encoding data into biometric chips or QR codes, the system would become more secure and less vulnerable to exploitation. This move aligns with broader efforts to modernize the Philippines' digital infrastructure and protect citizens' personal information. n nIn a related development, the Philippines is expanding its internet connectivity initiatives through a partnership with the World Bank. The project, launched in October 2024, aims to improve access to digital services by upgrading broadband infrastructure. The initiative focuses on boosting productivity for businesses and farms, enhancing healthcare systems, and advancing education. n nThe World Bank's involvement highlights the country's commitment to digital transformation. Early results include the deployment of an optic fibre network, which local entrepreneurs have hailed as a 'game-changer' for their operations. The partnership also plans to increase investments in rural internet expansion and integrate digital ID systems with key services. n nThese efforts reflect a growing recognition of the importance of data privacy and digital security in the Philippines. As the nation continues to modernize, stakeholders emphasize the need for robust safeguards to protect citizens from emerging threats. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is the main purpose of the proposed amendment to the Philippine Identification System Act?

A: The amendment aims to address data privacy concerns and enhance security measures for the national ID system, reducing risks of identity theft and unauthorized access.

Q: How will the new national ID system prevent fraud?

A: The proposed changes include encoding PSN numbers in biometric chips or QR codes, which can only be accessed through authorized verification processes.

Q: What are the recent data breach statistics in the Philippines?

A: In 2023, 1,597 ID theft incidents were reported, and over 315,000 identity credentials were compromised in the first half of 2024.

Q: What role does the World Bank play in the Philippines' digital initiatives?

A: The World Bank is partnering with the Philippines to improve internet connectivity, aiming to boost digital services, education, and healthcare systems.

Q: How will the new national ID system benefit citizens?

A: By reducing fraud risks and enhancing security, the system will protect personal information and support seamless access to digital services. 

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