Leyte, Eastern Visayas, Philippines – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Leyte, through its dedicated registration personnel, has resumed the full-scale implementation of the National ID registration on January 20, 2025. This initiative is part of the government’s continued commitment to provide every Filipino with a unified and reliable identification system under the National Identification System.

During the Online Refresher Training for the National ID Frontline Services last 16-17 January 2025, which was attended by newly-hired registration personnel, PSA Leyte’s Chief Statistical Specialist, Sheryl Ann A. Jamisola, highlighted the importance of the National ID in simplifying both public and private transactions, improving access to social services, and fostering financial inclusion.”The National ID serves as a powerful tool for empowering individuals and ensuring that no one is left behind,” CSS Jamisola stated during the online training.

Registration centers across Leyte are now fully equipped and ready to efficiently and safely accommodate registrants. The PSA Leyte guarantees that strict health protocols are being implemented to protect both personnel and registrants, particularly children, senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and other vulnerable groups. Details about the exact locations and schedules of registration venues are consistently shared with Local Government Units (LGUs) and Barangay units to keep the public informed.

Citizens are encouraged to visit their nearest registration center with the necessary documents, such as a valid government-issued ID or a birth certificate, to complete their registration process. Mobile registration units were also deployed to remote and underserved areas, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all sectors of the population. PSA Leyte calls on all eligible residents of Leyte to take advantage of this opportunity to register for their National ID. Moreover, our office also offers services for National ID Institutional Registration, ensuring that organizations and institutions can facilitate the registration of their members, employees, or affiliates for the National Identification System. By extending institutional registration services, PSA Leyte enhances accessibility for individuals who may face challenges in visiting registration centers, fostering broader participation in the National ID program. This initiative underscores the importance of inclusivity and convenience in the National ID registration process.

The National Identification System aims to provide a seamless, secure, and universally accepted identification system for every Filipino, reinforcing the country’s drive towards digital transformation and inclusive development.

For inquiries and further details on the National ID registration and schedules, visit PSA Leyte’s FB page: facebook.com/psaleyte2 or reach us thru our email address: leyte@psa.gov.ph

TACLOBAN CITY — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is set to begin immediate repairs on the Biliran Bridge with the release of P30 million in funding.

This was disclosed by Irwin Antonio, the officer-in-charge of the Biliran District Engineering Office who added that the procurement process is already underway through negotiated procurement to expedite the bidding process and ensure timely implementation of the repair works of the 49-year old bridge.

The P30-million repair project will address critical issues, including the replacement of corroded bolts and steel plates, installation of finger-type expansion joints to replace damaged ones, and repair of other deteriorated major components of the bridge.

Antonio expressed gratitude to DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan for prioritizing the release of funds and for his commitment to addressing the issue. He also recognized the efforts of Rep. Gerardo Espina, Jr. and other stakeholders in expediting the process.

“We are thankful to DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan for his unwavering commitment to securing the necessary funds for this project and ensuring the procurement process is on track,” he said.

The urgent need for repairs was identified following a technical inspection conducted on December 24, 2024, a day after a viral video showed the bridge swaying.

The inspection revealed significant defects, attributed to the reduced stiffness of the structure due to its age and corrosion caused by prolonged exposure to sea breeze.

The Biliran Bridge serves as the sole connection between Biliran province and Leyte, making its repair crucial for the safety and mobility of the community.

The Biliran DEO, in coordination with Biliran Representative Espina Jr. and local government units, pushed for immediate action to restore the bridge.

Despite the repairs, Antonio assured the public that the bridge will remain open to vehicles weighing 5 tons or less. Strict enforcement of the weight limit is in place, with DPWH staff weighing vehicles before they cross. Heavy equipment and vehicles exceeding the weight limit are transported via barge to ensure safety.

The repair project underscores DPWH’s commitment to providing sustainable and reliable infrastructure to benefit the people of Biliran.

Antonio emphasized that the repairs aim not only to restore the bridge’s functionality but also to ensure its long-term resilience for the people of Biliran.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)