The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) - Cotabato Province actively participated in the Information and Service Caravan on Child Labor held on February 20, 2025, at Kuya Rey’s Function Hall, Kidapawan City. This initiative was conducted in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to raise awareness on various government services available to combat child labor and provide assistance to affected individuals and their families. 

Upon the request of DOLE Cotabato Field Office, Registration Officer II Jenny Pearl C. Junasa, the National ID Focal Person, served as one of the resource speakers and provided an informative discussion on the importance of the National ID. She emphasized how the National ID serves as a valid proof of identity that simplifies access to government and private sector services, including financial transactions, employment applications, and social welfare programs. 

Ms. Junasa also introduced and explained the three forms of the National ID, namely: National ID Card – the physical identification card issued to registered individuals; National ID in Paper Form – a paper-based version of the National ID that serves as an official and equally valid proof of identity; and Digital National ID – the newly launched digital version that can be accessed through online platforms for more convenient transactions. 

She further stressed that all three formats of the National ID must be honored by both government and private institutions as mandated by law. Any refusal to recognize the PhilSys ID may result in corresponding sanctions and penalties in accordance with existing regulations. 

In addition to the services provided, PSA Cotabato also conducted on-site National ID registration, allowing attendees who had not yet registered to apply for their National ID. The team also facilitated the issuance of the National ID in paper form and provided assistance on how to avail the Digital National ID, ensuring that more individuals could conveniently access their National ID credentials. 

Through this initiative, the PSA Cotabato Province reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the National ID program and ensuring that every Filipino has access to a reliable and secure identification system.