MANILA – The lead convenor of an anti-fraud and anti-fake news group, Philippine Transport and Communication (PhilTraComm), reiterated on Tuesday its call to the public to meet the approaching deadline of Republic Act 11934, also known as the mandatory Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) registration law.
“We have just seven days left before the July 25, 2023 deadline, which falls a day after President Marcos delivers his second State of the Nation Address on Monday, July 24, 2023,” emphasized PhilTraComm Chief Aio Bautista.
Bautista added, “Registration only takes approximately seven minutes and contributes to the country’s ongoing fight against cellphone fraudsters and other forms of online scams.”
RA 11934, signed into law by President Marcos in October of last year, aims to reduce cybercrimes, cyberbullying, and ultimately, terrorism.
The initial deadline for mandatory registration was set for April 26, 2023. However, due to a low compliance turnout, Malacañang decided to extend the deadline for another three months.
Some SIM card owners have raised concerns about the lack of personal identification cards. In response, Bautista advised them to obtain a Barangay ID. “For those without a government-issued ID, they can obtain a Barangay ID,” stated Bautista, highlighting the importance of SIM registration. “This is a protection for all of us to prevent illegal activities and enjoy the benefits of technology,” Bautista added.
“There will definitely be no further extensions this time, and all unregistered SIMs will be deactivated at 12 am on Wednesday, July 26, 2023.”
As of July 6, 2023, the country has already registered 60.75 percent of the total 168 million Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards, nearing the July 25, 2023 deadline set by the national government, according to data from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).
From December 27, 2022, to July 6, 2023, a total of 102,062,372 SIM cards have been registered out of the 168,016,400 SIMs sold in the country.
The SIM Card Registration Act, which came into effect in December 2022, mandates all mobile users to register their SIM cards with personal information such as their name, address, and government ID number.
The law aims to combat crime, terrorism, and protect consumers from fraud.
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has been actively promoting awareness of the SIM Card Registration Act and encouraging people to register their SIM cards. The DICT is also collaborating with telecommunications companies to streamline and simplify the registration process.
The SIM Card Registration Act is a crucial step toward creating a safer and more secure Philippines.
By registering their SIM cards, mobile users can safeguard themselves against fraud and other crimes while ensuring that their phones are not misused for illegal activities.
(ai/mnm)
