BALER, Aurora (PIA) — The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) is urging Aurora residents to remain vigilant against fake Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) IDs being sold online, warning that such schemes can lead to identity theft and financial loss.
The agency stressed that these scams not only take victims’ money but also expose personal data that could be misused for fraudulent loans, unauthorized transactions, and criminal impersonation.
PSA Aurora Registration Officer Mark Venice Quesada said that counterfeit PhilSys IDs are invalid and cannot be used in transactions with government agencies or private institutions.
“A valid PhilSys ID has both overt and covert security features which are absent in counterfeit IDs. One example is the color-shifting element, where moving the ID reveals color reflections,” Quesada explained.
He warned that the PhilSys ID is provided free of charge by the government and that no online seller is authorized to produce it.
“Individuals or groups found guilty of producing, using, or possessing fake PhilSys IDs face penalties under Republic Act 11055 (PhilSys Act), including imprisonment of three to six years and fines ranging from ₱500,000 to ₱3 million,” Quesada said.
PhilSys IDs serve as the primary proof of identity for Filipinos, enabling access to government aid, healthcare, disaster relief, and other benefits.
Quesada noted that the PhilSys ID may be recognized internationally depending on a country’s requirements, though no formal resolution has been issued.
“Previously, only those aged five years and above could register. Now, children aged 0–4 years can also apply, provided that parents or guardians present complete documents such as a birth certificate, baby book, or barangay residency certificate, along with the PhilSys ID of the parent or guardian,” Quesada furthered.
The PSA continues to expand its registration services in Aurora by setting up mobile enrollment centers in far-flung barangays to ensure that residents without easy access to municipal halls can still register.
Based on the 2020 Census, PSA data shows that 95 percent—or 225,249 individuals—in Aurora have completed Step 2 of the PhilSys registration, reflecting the agency’s sustained efforts toward full coverage in the province. (CLJD/MJRD, PIA Region 3-Aurora)
