Rep. Sol Aragones Studies Japanese National ID System For Best Practices as PH Considers Own
TOKYO – Rep. Sol Aragones (Laguna 3rd District), Chair of the House Committee on Population and Family Relations, met today with Japanese officials in charge of Japan’s “My Number” national ID system as part of a survey of international best practices as legislation establishing a national ID system in the Philippines gains steam in Congress.
Rep. Aragones being briefed by CAO and MIAC Officials (Tokyo PE/Mahabsar Lucman)
Accompanied by officials of the Philippine Embassy and her Chief of Staff, Rep. Aragones was jointly briefed by officials of the Cabinet Office of Japan (CAO) and the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communication (MIAC) at the latter’s headquarters within Tokyo’s Kasumigaseki government district.
The briefings centered on the features, security safeguards and legal and information network underpinning the implementation of Japan’s “My Number” system. The Japanese officials also provided a comprehensive overview of the resulting improvements and efficiencies in the delivery of public services to both nationals and foreign residents in Japan, particularly in the fields of social security, tax administration, and even disaster response.
Rep. Aragones, Embassy officials and Chief of Staff Mr. Rutaquio with briefers from the Cabinet Office and the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communication. The Congresswoman was presented a “Maina-chan” doll, the ‘My Number’ mascot, (Tokyo PE/Mahabsar Lucman)
Following the briefing, Rep. Aragones was received by Cabinet Counsellor Haruki Mukai of the Cabinet Secretariat’s Office of Social Security and Tax Number System, who expressed appreciation for the House Committee’s interest in studying the Japanese system. Rep. Aragones, in turn, conveyed her gratitude for the Cabinet Office’s ready assistance and the valuable lessons drawn from the presentations.
Philippine Ambassador to Japan Jose C. Laurel hosted a welcome lunch for Rep. Aragones following the briefings.
Rep. Aragones and other Philippine officials are received by Councillor Mukai
Rep. Aragones undertook the study visit in connection with the House of Representatives’ passage of legislation establishing the Filipino ID System or “FilSys” (H.B. 6221) last 8 September. Counterpart draft legislation is currently undergoing consideration with the Philippine Senate.
Japan’s “My Number” (Kojinbango) system was implemented by Japan beginning January 2016 based on legislation enacted in 2013. The system facilitates the administration of social security benefits, taxation and even disaster response measures and support. Each and every citizen and resident in Japan is issued a 12-digit number. They may then be issued physical photo/IC ID cards upon request. END
