CICC executive director Alexander Ramos highlighted the rising number of dubious social media accounts advertising SIM card registration services for all networks in exchange for a fee.
One such account, posing as DITO Telecommunity, attempted to attract users with the message: “SIM card registration available po. PM lang po sa gustong magregister jan. all network po.”
In response, DITO Telecommunity Corp. disowned the account and emphasized its compliance with strict SIM registration protocols.
“We’re the strictest among the three on SIM registration,” DITO said in its response to CICC inquiries.
Republic Act No. 11934 — signed by President Marcos last Oct. 10, 2022, and implemented on Dec. 27, 2022 — mandates all SIM card users to personally register with their respective networks. The law aims to promote responsible SIM usage, equip enforcement agencies with tools to combat SIM-based crimes, and deter other illegal activities.
Ramos reiterated the importance of self-registration, requiring users to present a government-issued ID and a selfie.
“The SIM registration process is not that complicated and there is no need to hire a third party to do it for you. Do not be deceived by those offering to register your SIM,” he advised.
Ramos further warned that third-party services might misuse personal information for malicious purposes.
As of July 30, 2023, 113.97 million SIM cards were registered out of 168.02 million in circulation. For concerns, users can call the Inter-Agency Response Center hotline 1326, available 24/7, including holidays.
