The House of Representatives has approved on second reading the measure requiring the registration of Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards.
During its session on Wednesday, the lower chamber approved via voice voting House Bill No. 5793 or the “SIM Card Registration Act” which seeks to help law enforcement agencies track down lawless criminals who use mobile phones with postpaid and prepaid SIM cards.
Under the measure, every public telecommunication entities (PTEs) or direct seller shall require the end user of a SIM card to present a valid identification with photo to ascertain identity.
The PTE or direct seller shall require the end user to accomplish and sign a control-numbered registration form issued by the respected PTE of the SIM card purchased.
All PTEs shall maintain a SIM card Register of their subscribers and update the Department of Information and Technology Communications (DICT) every six months.
The measure likewise includes a confidentiality clause which prohibits the disclosure of any information of a subscriber, unless upon subpoena or lawful order form a competent court or written request from law enforcement agency in relation to an ongoing investigation, that a particular number requested is used in the commission of a crime. (©Philippine Daily Inquirer 2021)
