Bacolod City: The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)-Negros Occidental has initiated the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) or national ID services for public schools in Bacolod City. This service rollout began at Handumanan National High School, Handumanan Elementary School I, and Handumanan Elementary School II, where 184 students and school staff registered for their national identification (ID) across Tuesday and Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PSA’s collaboration with the Department of Education’s Division of Bacolod City marked the first school activation of the year. Aira Camille de la Banda, PSA-Negros Occidental’s national ID provincial focal person, emphasized the importance of sharing information about the national ID’s formats and benefits. The ID, available in card, paper, and digital forms, serves as valid proof of identity for public and private transactions.

De la Banda noted that the current focus is on national ID registration and information dissemination, with plans to incorporate the Birth Registration Assistance Project in partnership with the Local Civil Registry Office. Additionally, Diesah Biaoco, the PSA-Negros Occidental supervising statistical specialist, mentioned the goal to extend the school activation activity to more schools within the city to promote the Philippine Identification System.

The PSA plans to extend their campaign to Bacolod City National High School on Friday and to Bata National High School, Bata Elementary School I, and Bata Elementary School II on Saturday. Besides PhilSys registration, participants can access national ID tracking, electronic or e-PhilID printing, and verification services.