29 May 2025 — Bangued, Abra. The Philippine Statistics Authority – Abra Provincial Statistical Office (PSA Abra) has reported a marked increase in the number of individuals registering for the National Identification System at its Fixed Registration Center (FRC) in Bangued, with senior citizens accounting for the majority of the surge. The uptick is largely attributed to the growing awareness that the National ID is now being required as a primary proof of identity in the processing and release of social pension benefits and other government programs.

The daily registrant volume at the FRC has significantly increased over the past few weeks, averaging at 110 registrants per day, with senior citizens proactively availing themselves of the service to ensure uninterrupted access to their monthly pension under the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Social Pension Program for Indigent Senior Citizens. “This rise in registration reflects how more senior citizens now recognize the value and necessity of the PhilID,” said Felixberto B. Perdido, Chief Statistical Specialist of PSA Abra. “They understand that the National ID is not just a piece of documentation—it is a tool that enables secure and convenient access to essential government services, including their social pensions.”

To respond to the growing demand, PSA Abra has strengthened its operational capacity by deploying additional registration staff. This is in line with PSA’s commitment to deliver citizen-centered services that are accessible, efficient, and inclusive. The surge is also the result of strengthened coordination between PSA Abra, the DSWD, Local Government Units (LGUs), and barangay officials in intensifying information campaigns. These collaborative efforts aim to inform pension beneficiaries about the importance of the National ID in verifying their identity during pay-outs and other government transactions. Aside from walk-in registration at the FRC, PSA Abra continues to conduct mobile registration services in communities, targeting senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and those with limited mobility.

PSA Abra reiterates that National ID registration is free of charge and open to all Filipinos. All residents—especially senior citizens, social protection beneficiaries, and members of vulnerable sectors—are strongly encouraged to register as soon as possible to avoid delays in future government transactions.