TO SUPPORT the rollout of the government’s National ID program, the Department of Education conducted an orientation on the Philippine Identification System to enlighten the youth on the importance of securing a national ID.

“We are engaging our youth leaders in our National ID program to provide them better knowledge on its benefits, which includes having wider access to education and public services,” Education Secretary Leonor Briones said.

Officers of student governments participated in the orientation held last Tuesday, May 4.

The event was hosted by the Bureau of Learner Support Services-Youth Formation Division.

Representatives from the Department of Finance and the Philippine Statistics Authority explained the benefits and features of PhilSys to around 170 student-leaders from all over the country.

“The introduction for the national campaign for the Philippine Identification System is very important. It is an introduction of centralized national ID system that brings with it a handful of advantages and benefits that the Filipino people can avail and enjoy,” BLSS-YFD Chief Adolf Aguilar said.

The PhilSys will provide the youth and Filipinos easier access to services like opening bank accounts, facilitating online payments, social protection programs, healthcare and education services.

The Education department urged student-leaders to help the government explain to their fellow youth the benefits of the National ID system.

“Why the youth? Because the youth, using your puso, galing at talino, we can mobilize and raise awareness for the importance of national ID system ten folds. This is a step towards our goals and achieve a Makabagong Pilipinas. And with your help, we’re surely able to live in nation where no one gets left behind,” Aguilar said.

Youth leaders were encouraged to share testimonials and their experiences in registering for PhilSys.

“As our youth are digital natives who are adept in navigating online tools, we saw this opportunity to bring our student leaders at the forefront for the national campaign for Philippine Identification System that will help their fellow youth and Filipinos to access public services,” Briones said.