NBI launches new system for renewal of clearance

An automated machine that enables the renewal of National Bureau of Investigation clearance in just two minutes was launched yesterday at the Robinsons Mall.

The launching was in preparation for the installation of the automated clearance machines in all NBI facilities and renewal kiosks nationwide on July 1.

The new facility, powered by Mega Data Corporation, is aimed at improving the services of the NBI’s clearance renewal.

All NBI clearance kiosks in malls will be converted to unmanned Automated Clearance Renewal Machines starting July, saving the NBI considerable manpower cost.

Unlike the present Clearance Renewal Kiosks, which are only open Mondays to Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the automated clearance machines will be open Sundays to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. or for as long as the mall is open.

NBI regional director Medardo de Lemos said they expect the number of people to increase with the use of this technology. At present, De Lemos said they are serving 700 to 1,000 applicants daily using the manual system.

Mega Data Corporation chief marketing officer Jose Avedillo said the installation of the automated clearance renewal machines in various malls will make clearance processing faster. Avedillo said it will only take a minute or two to renew the NBI clearance using the card, which costs P120.

Avedillo said the card is lifetime and could be used anywhere in the country. The automated clearance machines operate like an automated teller machine used by banks. Using the clearance renewal card, the applicant can use the machine to process their clearance application.

NBI deputy director for regional operations service Reynaldo Esmeralda said the new system does not only make it more convenient for the public but it also solves the problems on “fixing” at the clearance section of the NBI.

“Convenient and accessible na, definitely fixing mawawala na yan,” Esmeralda said. – Fred P. Languido/LPM