The nationwide SIM card registration will help address issues on online scams and hacking, among others, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.
PNP Public Information Office chief Police Colonel Red Maranan, quoted by a GMA News report, made the remark when asked how the implementation of the SIM Card Registration Act would help the PNP in dealing with cybercrimes.
“When it comes to criminality, the PNP expects that the SIM card registration will help a lot in combatting crimes committed in cyberspace, especially online scams, hacking, and identity theft,” the official said.
“Even the snatching of cellphones may be gone when the SIM card law is fully implemented,” the official added.
Maranan said PNP chief Police General Rodolfo Azurin Jr. ordered all PNP personnel and employees to immediately register their SIM cards.
Earlier, the PNP said it is supporting the SIM Card Registration Act, saying the measure would aid authorities in tracking criminals during an investigation, without violating personal privacy.
The implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the SIM Card Registration Act took effect on Tuesday, December 27, mandating all public telecommunications entities (PTEs) to establish their own registration platform where they will get users onboard upon presenting valid identification cards.
Users are given 180 days to register, or risk having their SIM cards deactivated.