The registration pace of the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) project continues to progress despite quarantine protocols in some areas.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the lead implementing agency of the PhilSys, reported a total of 26,322,999 Filipinos from the National Capital Region (NCR) and other areas in 81 provinces are done with the biometrics process, the second phase of registration, as of Aug. 18.

After Step 2, the delivery of the Philippine Identification (PhilID) card by the Philippine Post will follow.

The entire application process and delivery are free of charge.

The NCR has been downgraded from modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) from Aug. 22 to 31.

“The PSA estimated around 2.9 million missed their appointments due to closures, but we remain steadfast in our commitment to prioritize the health and safety of our registrants,” PSA Undersecretary Dennis Mapa said in a statement on Thursday.

Registration centers in areas with restrictions lower than ECQ continue to operate, provided that health protocols are strictly observed.

PSA assured that each operational PhilSys registration center imposes wearing of masks and face shields, safe physical distancing, and regular disinfection.

Signed into law by President Rodrigo Duterte in August 2018, Republic Act 11055, or the Philippine Identification System Act, aims to establish a single national ID for all Filipinos and resident aliens.

The national ID shall be a valid proof of identity that shall be a means of simplifying public and private transactions, enrolment in schools, and the opening of bank accounts.

It will also boost efficiency, especially in dealing with government services where people will only need to present the PhilID during transactions. (PNA)