Manila: More than 4.6 million residents, representing 88.53 percent of the 5.3 million population in the Ilocos Region, have registered with the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) as of October 31, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

According to Philippines News Agency, the detailed breakdown shows that 2.7 million individuals are registered in Pangasinan, 725,184 in La Union, 657,418 in Ilocos Sur, and 538,017 in Ilocos Norte. PSA 1 (Ilocos Region) registration officer Christopher Flores shared insights in a phone interview, highlighting the initiative to register even infants with the consent of their mothers. Flores noted the convenience of hospital registrations, ensuring timely documentation for both civil registry and national ID purposes.

Flores detailed the measures taken to facilitate registration across the region, especially during the pandemic. Efforts included providing transportation to more accessible barangays for registration purposes, allowing residents of all ages to obtain their National ID. He urged those who have yet to register to visit the nearest PSA office with any supporting document such as a government ID or birth certificate for registration. He emphasized that updates to the National ID can only be done in person at PSA offices.

The PSA is also working on providing local government units with National ID authentication services. Flores encouraged LGUs to request demonstrations of these services, which are expected to enhance everyday transactions at municipal and provincial levels.

Flores also addressed the increased acceptance of the National ID as valid proof of identification, noting a decline in complaints regarding its rejection. However, he cautioned against fraudulent use of the ID, particularly in altering addresses for financial payouts. He assured that government agencies are equipped to verify the authenticity of National IDs and stated that violators will be held accountable under the law.