By Gabriela Baron
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) said that over 11 million SIM cards have been registered with the major telecommunication entities as mandated by the SIM Card Registration Act.
Citing National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) data, a total of 11,219,722 SIMs were registered six days after the period for SIM Registration started on Dec. 27.
Smart Communications Inc. recorded the highest number with 5,172,061 SIMs registered, followed by Globe Telecom Inc. with 5,030,640, and DITO Telecommunity Corp. with 1,017,012.
DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy stressed that the law aims to regulate the issuance and use of SIMs, which he noted “essential” in operating mobile phones and pocket Wi-Fis.
Uy added that the law is also expected to suppress the spread of spam texts and scams using mobile devices.
“We are optimistic through our vigilant enforcement of the provisions of the SIM Registration Act and with the faithful compliance of the private sector, we can ensure the safety of our citizenry, and aid our efforts in pushing for a digital Philippines, in line with the vision of President Marcos Jr.,” Uy said.
“We encourage the public to participate and register so we can create a safer cyber community,” Secretary Uy asserted,” he added.
SIM registration may be done online through websites or applications launched by telecommunications companies.
The DICT and NTC also assured that they will be extending support to the telcos in facilitating registration in remote areas where Internet connectivity is limited or non-accessible. -ag
