The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) reminded the public that a digital version of the Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) identification card is a valid document.
The agency said that a digital TIN ID is a valid government-issued ID that can be used by the taxpayer for transactions in the following:
- Government agencies and institutions
- Local Government Units (LGU)
- Employers
- Banks
- Financial institutions and other relying parties
BIR also said the digital TIN ID presented must be subject to authentication and verification.
“The Digital TIN ID shall serve as reference for the Taxpayer Identification Number of the taxpayer,” the agency said, adding that it shall be “honored and accepted as a valid government-issued identification document” of the taxpayer.
It said that entities can verify the presented digital TIN ID online through the ORUS (Online Registration and Update System) by scanning the QR Code in the ID using a mobile device camera.
The BIR launched the digital TIN ID last year. To get one, taxpayers only need to follow the steps presented on its website.
The agency previously said there is no need to secure a physical card version as the digital TIN ID is a valid government-issued ID.
To obtain the digital TIN ID, individuals must provide clear photos of themselves.
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) also recently reminded the public that the digital version of the national ID is as valid as the physical version.
PSA Assistant National Statistician Emily Pagado said that the digital national ID works the same way as the physical card.
She also urged Filipinos to report the entities that are not accepting the digital version.
“At the end of the day, hindi na natin kakailanganin talaga physical because of the digital aspect of our national ID platform. We always go back to — they can access their national ID already and enjoy the benefits of being registered to the national ID system,” Pagado said.
“It should not be about the cards that we issue. If ako pumunta sa isang opisina even without a physical card, my identity will be verified,” she added.
The digital version of the national ID can be accessed via the eGov mobile phone application.