SSS, PhilHealth unify ID system
The Social Security System (SSS) and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) have agreed to implement a single identification system for members of the two agencies, a top official said.
SSS President and Chief Executive Officer Romulo Neri said the unified multi-purpose ID system known as UMID would use an automated fingerprint identification system (AFIS) to establish the identities of members.
“Based on SSS’ experience, using the biometric AFIS technology prevents applicants from obtaining multiple ID cards,” he said.
The UMID system aims to enhance the integrity of state-issued ID cards, facilitate the public’s transactions with government, reduce costs from producing different IDs and minimize redundant databases.
Under the agreement, SSS and PhilHealth would spend for the UMID cards of their respective members. The two agencies would equally share the cost of producing the IDs of those who are both SSS and PhilHealth members.
“But we expect to further lower our expenses in producing each UMID card once more government agencies join the UMID,” Neri said.
The UMID project is expected to cover other state-run agencies in line with the objectives of Executive Orders 420 and 700, which aim to unify the identification systems of government institutions that issue ID cards.
Neri and PhilHealth President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Rey Aquino signed the UMID agreement at the Department of Health head office in Manila on March 26.
The SSS tied-up with the National Statistics Office (NSO) to build a central verification and enrollment system for the UMID. Neri and NSO administrator Carmelita Ericta signed the agreement at the National Economic Development Authority office in Pasig City on March 16. (PNA)