BACALOD: The city government of Bacolod is set to begin issuing identification cards to members of accredited sectoral associations starting January, aiming to facilitate easier access to government services and assistance. The initiative is part of an effort to create a comprehensive database to verify membership and streamline aid distribution.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Management Information Technology and Computer Services is currently encoding individual information to build this database. City Administrator Lucille Gelvolea stated that the initial issuance of sectoral IDs will be prioritized for those belonging to accredited associations. This measure is expected to simplify the process of identifying legitimate members of specific sectoral groups, which has been a challenge in the absence of a centralized database.

Gelvolea further explained that there are approximately 170 accredited associations in Bacolod, encompassing a wide range of sectors such as senior citizens, women, vendors, farmers, persons with disabilities, fisherfolk, and transport workers. The registration process for these sectoral IDs was launched last December during a summit organized by Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez. The goal is to ensure that beneficiaries have easier access to government programs and assistance tailored to their specific needs.