Go backs SIM card registration bill

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 1310 or the proposed "Subscriber Identity Module Card Registration Act," which aims to eradicate the proliferation of spam messages and other fraudulent cellular phone activities. Go was also made co-author of the measure.

During the Senate plenary session last Tuesday, Go, in his speech inserted into the records, cited that the government has been swamped by reports of phone scams and other mobile phone-aided criminal activities, with some cases even involving messages containing private or sensitive information about the recipients.

"Ilang beses na akong nabibiktima o nagagamit ang pangalan ko sa mga text scams,(I have been a victim several times too, with my name being used in text scams)" Go shared as there were also instances wherein his name was used by scammers to lure victims to their illegal schemes.

Under the proposed law, consumers will be required to register their SIM cards before activation by submitting an accomplished registration form and presenting a valid government ID or other necessary documents to prove their identification.

Go then expressed his confidence that if the measure is enacted, it shall deter fraudsters and create a safer online environment for Filipinos.

"I believe that through the passage of this measure, we will be able to protect the privacy and information of our fellow Filipinos. I will always be in support of the protection of the interest and welfare of our kababayans," Go stressed.

"This will be able to help the current administration protect the welfare and privacy of the Filipinos and make them feel safe as they use their devices," he reiterated.