DSWD, PSA bring Nat’l ID registration to IP community in Mainit, Surigao Norte
By Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga, through the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), in partnership with the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)–Surigao del Norte, conducted the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) National ID registration for the Mamanwa tribe in Barangay Cantugas, Mainit, Surigao del Norte on February 5.
The activity fulfilled DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian’s directive to strengthen digital inclusion and improve service delivery by ensuring accurate beneficiary data and faster verification processes. Also, it ensured inclusive access of the indigenous peoples (IP) to the national identification system, while improving the accuracy of 4Ps beneficiary records to support more efficient program implementation.
Chimbee Ann Dahang, municipal link of the 4Ps Municipal Operations Office–Mainit, highlighted the importance of the activity. “The PhilSys National ID allowed the IP communities to access government services, particularly those related to the 4Ps. Personnel from PSA–Surigao del Norte assisted beneficiaries in accessing their Digital National ID through the bbmserbisyo.dswd.gov.ph portal and the eGovPH mobile application, enabling them to download their digital ID while awaiting the release of their physical cards.”
Beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the initiative, noting the importance of having a valid national ID in accessing services and employment opportunities. “Dako kaayo og tabang ang National ID kay kung mangita ako og trabaho ug pangitaan man gani ako, naa na koy ikapakita nga ID (The National ID is a big help, especially if you look for a job. In case I need to present proof of my identification, I already have my National ID),” said Jeric Hukman.
Another beneficiary, Jennifer Tabontabon, shared that she willingly complied with the registration as part of the program requirements. “Nagparehistro ako tungod kay gi-require kami isip miyembro sa 4Ps. Mutuman ako sa mga mando ug guidelines sa programa kay para ra man sab ni sa among kaayuhan (I availed of the National ID as requirement for the members of the 4Ps. I am compliant with the mandate and guidelines of the program that is for our benefit).”
DSWD-Surigao del Norte’s 4Ps is set to conduct the mobile PhilSys National ID registration across the province throughout February to bring government services closer to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas and ensure that beneficiaries are enrolled in the national identification system. (SDR, /PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from DSWD Caraga)