Around 12 million elderly Filipinos are set to benefit from the country’s first digital National Senior Citizen ID (NSCID), officially rolled out by the government through the eGovPH app.
The National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) led the launch at The Manila Hotel on Friday, marking what officials described as a milestone in making public services more accessible to the elderly.
“This is more than just an ID. It’s a symbol that no senior citizen is left behind,” NCSC Chairperson and CEO Mary Jean Loreche said. “Itong ID na ito ay nagpapatunay na madali at maagap lang pala ang pag-access for our services ng gobyerno upang maramdaman po ninyong lahat na kayo po ay mahal ng ating pamahalaan.”
According to DICT Secretary Henry Aguda, the digital NSCID will automatically appear in the eGovPH app for those already registered in the national ID system (PhilSys) once they turn 60, removing the need for additional paperwork or trips to government offices. So far, 1.2 million senior citizens are among the 8.4 million Filipinos registered with PhilSys.
To address concerns over connectivity and tech literacy, the NCSC will conduct nationwide digital training sessions with the DICT, supported by local governments, private groups, and schools. Information officers will also be deployed to help seniors download and use the app.
Aguda assured that efforts to expand internet access—especially in remote areas—are ongoing. “Give us until the end of next year and there will be no corner of the Philippines where you cannot use a cellphone and the app,” he said.
Officials said the integration of the NSCID into the eGovPH app reinforces the government’s push for a more inclusive, tech-enabled society where citizens of all ages can access vital services.
