ILOILO CITY (PIA) — The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)–Guimaras is implementing various initiatives to make sure that Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) registration in the island-province is inclusive and accessible especially to its vulnerable sectors like senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Data from PSA–Guimaras showed that for the first two months of the year, some 79 senior citizens and 35 PWDs have successfully registered under the PhilSys program including centenarian Susana Gallarde Garmay, a 101-year-old from Brgy. Igang, Nueva Valencia.
Garmay personally visited the PhilSys Guimaras Fixed Registration Center in February this year with the assistance of a family member.
Provincial Statistics Officer Nelida B. Losare said that these initiatives of PSA Guimaras demonstrate its commitment to accessibility and guarantees that every Guimarasnon, regardless of age or mobility, has access to the Philippine Identification System
These initiatives aim also to address mobility challenges faced by seniors and PWDs, allowing easier access to the PhilSys Step 2 registration process without requiring extensive travel.
“Some PWDs were catered through house-to-house mobile registration, while others were accompanied by their families to the FRC. This approach guarantees that every eligible individual, regardless of mobility limitations, has an opportunity to obtain their National ID,” Losare said.
According to Losare the National ID provides senior citizens and PWDs with a more convenient way to access government services, pension benefits, and financial transactions.
“By prioritizing their registration, we are fostering a more inclusive and accessible identification system that ensures that even the oldest and most vulnerable members of the community are not left behind,” said Losare.
PSA Guimaras also conducted information campaigns in partnership with local government units (LGUs), and other stakeholders, to educate the elderly, PWDs, and their families about the benefits of the National ID.
Losare is encouraging senior citizens, PWDs and their families to participate in the upcoming registration schedules.
Registrants must bring necessary documents, such as a birth certificate or other valid proof of identity, to facilitate smooth processing.
Meanwhile, PhilSys registration will be conducted during the Family Development Sessions of beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino program at the municipal plaza of Nueva Valencia town on November 21, 25, 26 and 28. (AAL/LAF/PIA6-Iloilo/PSA-Guimaras)
