Typhoons, floods, and fires don’t just destroy homes—they can also wipe out important documents like your Philippine Identification (PhilID) card.
Many families panic, thinking they can’t claim DSWD relief or other benefits without it. The truth is, you still can.
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and local government units (LGUs) have set guidelines to help disaster-affected citizens report losses, replace their ID, and use temporary proof of identity so they can continue receiving help.
Here’s what to do if your National ID was lost, soaked, or damaged during a calamity.
Step 1. Check for Any Saved Digital Copy
Before filing a replacement, look through your phone or email for your ePhilID or a screenshot of your card.
Use the PhilSys Check QR Tool to verify if it’s still valid. The QR shows your official PhilSys record and can be scanned by relief workers for confirmation.
Why it matters: Verified digital IDs speed up identity checks at relief desks and prevent delays in releasing food packs or financial aid.
Step 2. Report the Loss or Damage to Authorities
Once it’s safe, record what happened. Take photos of the flood or fire damage and note where and when your ID went missing or got destroyed.
Next, file a report at your barangay hall or nearest police station. Ask for a barangay certification or a notarized affidavit of loss.
These documents help:
- Prevent misuse of your lost ID.
- Support your PSA replacement request later.
Tip: Keep printed and digital copies of all reports in case relief centers ask for verification.
Step 3. Prepare for a Waiting Period
After widespread calamities, ID replacements may take several weeks or months due to production and delivery delays.
When filing, ask PSA staff for an estimated release date or check if your area has mobile registration units deployed for disaster recovery.
Remember: Even while waiting, you can still claim relief using temporary IDs issued by your barangay.
Step 4. Gather Your Documents Before Visiting PSA
Bring the following requirements for replacement:
- Primary ID: PSA Birth Certificate or valid passport
- Supporting ID: Any government ID you still have
- Proof of loss: Barangay/police report or affidavit of loss
- Proof of address: Utility bill or barangay certificate (if available)
If travel is difficult, a trusted representative may file for you. Prepare an authorization letter and the representative’s valid ID, but confirm PSA’s local rules on representation first.
Tip: Keep documents inside a resealable waterproof envelope to protect them from further rain or debris.
Step 5. Use Temporary IDs for Relief Distribution
While waiting for your new PhilID, you can use other documents accepted by most DSWD and LGU relief desks:
- Barangay Certificate of Indigency or Barangay ID – fastest proof of identity and residency
- Voter’s Certification or School ID – helpful for adults and students
- Photocopy of any valid government document with photo – as backup proof
Barangays are authorized to issue emergency certifications for residents affected by calamities. Present these when claiming food packs, cash, or medicine assistance.
✅ Tip: If your barangay office is flooded or closed, ask the municipal social welfare office (MSWDO) for alternative arrangements.
Step 6. File for a Replacement at PSA
When you’re ready, visit the nearest PSA Registration Center or any mobile registration team deployed in your province.
Replacement Process
- Report your loss and submit the affidavit or police report.
- Fill out the replacement form and attach your documents.
- Undergo biometric capture, if required.
- Receive your acknowledgment receipt and wait for notification.
Fees
- First replacement: often free, especially if lost during a calamity.
- Next replacements: may include a small processing fee.
Keep the acknowledgment receipt. You can show it to DSWD or other agencies while your new card is being printed.
Step 7. Claiming Aid Without a Physical Card
You don’t need to wait for your new ID to access government aid. Relief offices usually accept:
- A verified ePhilID,
- The PSA acknowledgment receipt, or
- A barangay-issued certificate.
These serve as temporary proof of identity so you can still claim AICS (Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations) and other post-disaster programs.
Tip: Save digital backups of your verified documents and share copies with family members to avoid re-filing later.
Final Reminder
A calamity may take your belongings—but not your right to assistance.
If your National ID is lost or damaged, act quickly: verify your ePhilID, report the loss, and coordinate with PSA and your barangay for temporary IDs.
Staying organized and proactive helps prevent fraud, protects your identity, and ensures you and your family still receive government support during recovery.