The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) looks to extend the deadline for the registration of mobile phone subscriber identity modules (SIM) for another 120 days.
“DICT is looking at the possibility of an extension. DICT has the prerogative to extend the SIM registration process for another 120 days. We are still deliberating on the matter,” DICT undersecretary and spokesperson Anna Mae Yu Lamentillo said.
“We’re focused on increasing the number of registrants before the April 26 deadline,” she added.
As of March 6, a total 41 million SIMs or 24.26 percent of the subscriber universe in the country took the trouble to have their numbers registered with the regulator.
Smart Communications Inc. reported total SIM registration reaching 20,882,843 which is 30.71 percent of its 67,995,734 subscribers.
Globe Telecom Inc. reported 17,005,201 registered SIMS or 19.35 percent of its 87,873,936 subscribers.
DITO Telecommunity Corp. reported the registration of 3,114,190 SIMs or 23.76 percent of its 13,108,103 subscriber base.
SIM Registration is an important component of the nation’s cybersecurity agenda as text scams and fraud have been cut down significantly since its implementation.
Completing the registration will protect not only you, but other subscribers as well,” Lamentillo said.
“This is why we urge the public to register their SIM for their convenience and protection,” she added.
The deadline for SIM registration is on April 26 this year consistent with the SIM Registration Act and the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) set by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).
