Good afternoon everyone and thank you for joining us today.

We are here today at the CICC Complaint Center to provide an update on the SIM registration and to shed light on the queries and concerns that we have been receiving through our Complaint Center Hotline 1326.

Two weeks ago, the SIM registration commenced. During the first few days, we have monitored complaints surrounding the process, such as being unable to load the platform provided by the PTEs, unable to complete the process, and other technical issues. This is actually the reason why the first two weeks of the SIM registration was launched as a test period, to give the PTEs ample time to adjust and improve their system. At the same time, we launched the 24/7 Complaint Center Hotline 1326, which serves as the public’s direct contact to government in matters relating to the SIM registration and even other ICT related concerns.

The process has actually improved if we look at the statistics. We already have more than 16 million SIMs registered as of January 9, and the number of complaints have significantly dropped from an average of 95 complaints during the first week, down to an average of 47 during the second week. Most of the concerns were about the SIM registration process, website malfunction or not loading, and where to register. There are also queries about how many SIMs they can register, the deadline for registration, what to do when they entered the wrong details, and concerns on data privacy.

Having this Complaint Center gives us in the DICT and our attached agencies, a clear picture of the concerns of the public so we can relay them to our PTEs and we are aware if there is already a need to intervene to ensure that we provide end-users an efficient way to register their SIMs. 

In fact, now we are working on the process for SIM registration for geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs). We are working with the PTEs and other government agencies, such as the DILG and the DepEd, to facilitate the SIM registration and fast track the process in areas with limited telecommunication or internet access the soonest possible time. 

Our aim is to register at least one million SIMs every day. Currently, we are on track, but there could be a lull, and then a surge again once we are near the deadline. That is why we seek the help of the media in our information campaign, let us continuously encourage the public to register their SIMs already as soon as they can. 

The SIM registration is our protection against fraudulent calls, scams through text messages and even mobile apps. That is why it is very important that we register all SIMs as soon as possible. 

Meanwhile, our Complaint Center Hotline 1326 is also a platform where the public can report other ICT related issues, such as their concerns on courier services, even cyber threats. 

The goal of both the SIM registration and the Hotline 1326 is to ensure that ICT benefits the people. These are our tools to prevent mobile and online fraud, and even suppress crimes such as human trafficking, online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, and terrorism, among others.

As we encourage the public to register their SIMs early, we also reiterate our reminder to be mindful of fake websites, phishing, and other scams that may take advantage of people trying to register their SIMs. Please always check the source of the information before following instructions especially if it comes through email or text messages. Visit only the official websites of your PTEs, and if unsure, you can always contact the 24/7 Complaint Center Hotline 1326.

Again, we call on everyone’s continued cooperation with the SIM registration. Let us all work together to make the law work. 

Thank you and good afternoon.