manila: The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has launched the second phase of the Private Express and Messengerial Delivery Service (PEMEDES) Licensing Portal to enhance safety and professionalism in the delivery service industry. This initiative aims to regulate the industry effectively.

According to Philippines News Agency, the program aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to accelerate digital transformation and improve public trust in digital services. It also aims to enhance the ease of doing business through technologically advanced government systems.

DICT Secretary Henry Aguda announced that the second phase introduces the messenger work license (MWL) virtual ID, available via the PEMEDES portal. Aguda emphasized the importance of recognizing delivery riders and ensuring that delivery services are more professional and secure.

The PEMEDES portal, developed by the DICT Management Information Systems Service (MISS), serves as the official platform for regulating delivery services. It allows riders and operators to register online, submit necessary requirements, undergo identity verification, and obtain a digital ID.

The portal incorporates National ID integration and facial recognition technology through a partnership with the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) e-Verify system. It also features automated document processing, AI-assisted data extraction, and QR-enabled identification to streamline the licensing process and facilitate real-time approval once requirements are fulfilled.

The initiative provides PEMEDES operators with a standardized mechanism to verify messenger credentials and ensure compliance with regulations. For consumers, it aims to build trust by confirming that delivery personnel are properly identified and operating under national safety and accountability standards.

The PEMEDES portal can be accessed at register.pemedes.gov.ph.