Biometrics for nat’l ID registration to start Jan. 4

Biometrics capture for national ID applicants will start on Jan. 4, 2021, the first working day of the year, although the second step in the Philippine Identification System registration will be done “on a gradual, small-scale basis” because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Step two involves the recording of biometrics consisting of a front-facing photograph, fingerprints, iris scan and the validation of supporting documents.

On the other hand, the ongoing first step launched on Oct. 12 consists of house-to-house collection of demographic data and then scheduling an appointment for the capture of biometric information.

The demographic information currently being collected includes full name, sex, date and place of birth, blood type, permanent and present address, as well as citizenship.

National Statistician Claire Dennis Mapa said that as of Dec. 9, more than 8.4 million Filipinos had completed the initial step and that her office was looking to raise its target from 9 to 11 million before the end of the year. INQ