The Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) paid tribute to its deaf employees for their decades of service while clarifying application guidelines for the Postal ID as the country observed National Disability Rights Week from 17 to 23 July.

Stationed at the Central Mail Exchange Center (CMEC) in Pasay City, deaf postal workers handle critical tasks including mail processing, sorting, dispatch preparation and support services.

“Our deaf employees have consistently demonstrated professionalism, discipline, and commitment to public service,” postmaster general Maximo C. Sta. Maria III said in a statement.

“They are valued members of the PHLPost family and their contributions have helped strengthen our operations over the years,” he added.

PHLPost’s inclusive hiring policy spans more than four decades.

It began under the late former Postmaster General and Congressman Roilo Golez, who led the then-Bureau of Posts from 1981 to 1986 and championed hiring hearing-impaired workers well before workplace inclusion gained widespread traction.

Meanwhile, PHLPost clarified that Filipinos do not need to possess an existing valid government-issued ID to apply for a Postal ID.

The statement addressed a common public misconception that another primary ID is required beforehand. To apply, first-time applicants need only submit a birth certificate, a barangay certificate or other acceptable proof of address, and a completed application form.

Applicants without a barangay certificate may present a recent utility bill — such as electricity, water or internet — showing their name and current residential address.

“The Postal ID has always been intended to make it easier for Filipinos to establish their identity, especially those applying for their first government-issued ID,” Sta. Maria said. “By presenting a Birth Certificate and proof of address, eligible applicants can already begin the process of securing a trusted government-issued ID.”