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Making Life Easier for Lolo and Lola: Digital Senior IDs Are Here

by Alexa Villano
August 18, 2025

The National Commission of Senior Citizens and the Department of Information and Communications Technology partnered for the digital ID through the EGov App

Senior citizens in the Philippines can now enjoy faster and more convenient access to government benefits through a new Digital National Senior Citizen ID, launched by the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

The initiative aims to simplify the ID application process, eliminating the need for excessive paperwork and long queues.

How to Apply for the ID

To apply, senior citizens simply need to download the EGov PH App on their smartphones or tablets. Once installed, users should:

Fill in the required personal details
Search for the National Senior Citizen ID link
Submit the application

If the applicant is 60 years old or above, the app automatically generates the digital ID. The ID includes the holder’s name, photo, birth date, ID number, and a QR code. This QR code can be scanned to access discounts and benefits at pharmacies, transportation services, and other partner establishments. The ID is recognized by all local government units (LGUs) and accredited partners.

Senior Citizens can now have a digitized ID.

Screenshot from the National Commission of Senior Citizens Facebook

A Huge Help for the Country’s Senior Citizens

With the new digital system, senior citizens no longer need to physically line up at their local government offices to obtain an ID. This reduces wait times and makes the process more accessible—especially for those with mobility challenges.

At the launch, NCSC Chairperson and CEO Dr. Mary Jean P. Loreche emphasized the importance of this digital initiative:

“This launch is more than a digital innovation—it is a declaration that our senior citizens deserve convenience and empowerment in the digital age.”

The launch of the digitized Senior Citizens ID.

Photo courtesy of the National Commission of Senior Citizens Facebook

Combating Fake IDs and Ensuring Security

The digital ID system also helps businesses verify the authenticity of senior citizen IDs. In recent months, establishments have raised concerns over the use of fake IDs, particularly those claiming Persons with Disabilities (PWD) benefits.

By incorporating a secure QR code and digital verification, the new system helps prevent fraud and ensures that benefits reach legitimate recipients.

Moving Toward Full Digital Inclusion

The digitalization of senior citizen services is part of a broader effort to bring more sectors of society into the digital fold. As of 2020, the Philippines had approximately 9 million registered senior citizens—a number that has only grown since.

The new digital ID is one more step toward ensuring that seniors are not left behind in the country’s move toward digital governance and service delivery.