PB backs move to replace GSIS e-card

CEBU, Philippines -The move of the Government Service Insurance System to introduce the unified multipurpose identification system has the support from the members of the Cebu Provincial Board.

The PB, in a resolution, said that the GSIS would soon introduce the Unified Multi-Purpose ID system to replace the agency’s eCARD.

The Unified Multi-Purpose ID system is an offshoot of Executive Order No. 420 which requires all government agencies and government-owned and controlled corporations to streamline and harmonize their identification systems through the use of a unified multi-purpose ID.

PB member Juan Bolo said that the shift to the UMID upgrades the present government IDs such as SSS, GSIS and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation.

According to Bolo, GSIS said that its UMID-compliant card will replace the eCARD plus, but with no cost to the member.

The new eCARD will already bear a Common Reference Number or CRN.

CRN is the primary identifier of an individual transacting business or availing of service from any government agency.

The resolution of the PB said that through the CRN, the UMID-compliant eCARD will serve as a valid identification card not only for GSIS but also for the SSS, PhilHealth, the Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG) and other government agencies.

It was also learned that active members can apply for various loan products and withdraw pension claims using the card.

Further, the PB announced of its support to the program of the Department of Energy scheduling the observance of “Earth Hour” this coming March 27 from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

As part of their support, a resolution likewise has been approved by the PB urging the public to turn off their lights for one hour on the given schedule in working towards achieving reduction of global carbon footprint.

The resolution mentioned of climate change as the result of the accumulation of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane in the atmosphere that cause the temperatures of the oceans to rise.

It also added that this increase in temperature results in changes of weather patterns and the melting of polar ice caps as well as the rise in sea levels.

PB members said that Earth Hour is practiced in different countries, encouraging individuals, groups or corporations to switch off their lights for one hour.

PB members Juan Bolo and Julian Daan said that it is very proper to urge the public to join and turn off their lights during the coming Earth Hour as no solution on climate change is possible unless we unite and act now to save an ailing planet. — Jose P. Sollano/MEEV