Delays in the rollout of the national ID system are being flagged as a major obstacle to delivering fuel subsidies and other assistance to transport workers affected by rising fuel costs.
The issue was raised during a House Committee on Transportation hearing on fuel subsidies and service contracting programs—key government measures aimed at easing the impact of the ongoing energy crisis on drivers, operators, and commuters.
Lawmakers noted that while support mechanisms such as fuel discounts, per-kilometer subsidies, and fare incentives are in place, their effectiveness depends on accurate identification and targeting of beneficiaries.
“Very disappointed ako sa national ID natin. Wala pang 50 percent ang na-distribute,” said Franz Pumaren, chair of the House Committee on Transportation.
Officials pointed out that many transport workers, particularly those in the informal sector, lack valid government-issued identification, limiting their access to aid.
“‘Yung iba walang passport, walang lisensya, kaya hirap silang makatanggap ng ayuda,” Pumaren said.
The absence of a fully implemented unified ID system has also led to data inconsistencies, including duplicate entries and so-called “ghost riders,” which were flagged during the hearing.
“Ang importante dito tamang data. Kung wala tayong maayos na identification system, mahihirapan talaga ang gobyerno sa targeting,” he added.
The concern comes as transport workers continue to face the effects of volatile fuel prices, increasing the urgency for efficient and targeted assistance.
“These are sectors na araw-araw tinatamaan ng pagtaas ng presyo ng krudo. Kailangan mabilis at tama ang tulong,” Pumaren said.
A resolution is being prepared to seek a congressional inquiry into the implementation of the national ID system under the Philippine Statistics Authority, particularly in light of budget allocations and distribution progress.
Lawmakers also noted that similar challenges in data management affected aid distribution during the pandemic, raising concerns that the same issues persist.
“That should have been a learning experience for us. Hanggang ngayon, problema pa rin ang data,” Pumaren said.