PNP seeks strengthened SIM Card Registration Act

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police is seeking amendments to strengthen Republic Act 11934, or the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Registration Act, to curb cyber criminal activities.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the police force is ready to work with legislators and other stakeholders to add more teeth to the law in running after people involved in online criminal activities.

“Innovations in the digital technology are fast evolving and we really need to keep up for more efficient and effective approaches in running after illegal activities and making the cyberspace safe for every Filipino,” Nartatez said in a statement.

The police Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) earlier raised concerns over the effectiveness of the law in addressing cyber crimes due to what it described as loopholes in the registration of SIM cards.

To have a stronger verification process, ACG director Maj. Gen. Wilson Asueta wants the Philippine Identification or national ID as a requirement in verifying a person’s identity before a SIM card is activated.

Of the 818 operations the ACG conducted from January to July 31, 359 involve the illegal sale of financial actions, online swindling or estafa and illegal sale of registered SIM cards.

Nartatez said they would provide lawmakers with insights on how to make the law more effective in crime prevention, as he vowed an intensified campaign against cybercrimes.