Manila: Globe Telecom Inc. (Globe) on Monday called for the creation of a government identification (ID) database to validate subscriber identity module (SIM) card registration, improve security, and deter the use of fake IDs. In a statement, Globe general counsel Froilan Castelo emphasized the need for an official ID database that telecommunications companies (telcos) can use to verify the identity of registrants, citing options like the National ID, Social Security System (SSS), and Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) cards.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castelo highlighted the challenges faced by telcos in ensuring the authenticity of identities without a centralized database. “There is no way for us to determine with 100 percent certainty if the identity is fake without a database from which we can validate the identity,” he stated. Despite the strict implementation of the SIM Registration Act, including the acceptance of required ID cards, use of text-reading software, and facial recognition, criminals still manage to exploit the system by using stolen identities and selling registered SIM cards to scammers.

Castelo urged mobile users to responsibly register their SIM cards in their own names, with an exception for minors. He also warned against accepting offers to register SIM cards on behalf of others in exchange for cash, as this could lead to their identities being used in scams, potentially resulting in criminal charges. The call to action comes after the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission urged telcos to enforce the SIM Registration Act more rigorously following reports of “pre-registered” SIM cards being sold on social media.

The SIM Registration Act’s Section 11 prohibits the sale or purchase of registered SIM cards, with violations punishable by imprisonment of six months to six years and/or fines ranging from PHP100,000 to PHP300,000.

In addition, Globe highlighted its 5G network expansion efforts in 2024, with 587 new 5G sites installed across the Philippines. As of now, Globe 5G covers 98.69 percent of the National Capital Region and 96.95 percent of select cities in the Visayas and Mindanao.