Authorities are looking at possible changes to the country's SIM registration framework as law enforcement officials seek stronger measures against cybercrime. The Philippine National Police (PNP) has initiated a review of Republic Act (RA) 11934, or the SIM Registration Act, following concerns that certain provisions may be limiting efforts to prevent, investigate, and prosecute crimes involving mobile phone numbers.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed the police legal team to examine the law and identify possible amendments based on recommendations from the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG). The review comes as cybercrime cases linked to both registered and unregistered SIM cards continue to pose challenges for investigators.
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Proposed Reforms to Strengthen SIM Monitoring
According to the PNP, relevant units are prepared to work with lawmakers and other stakeholders in evaluating the law. Operational data and information gathered from police investigations may also be used to support potential legislative changes.
The ACG has pointed to several areas that require stricter regulation, particularly SIM registration procedures and the transfer of ownership between users. ACG director Maj. Gen. Wilson Casil Asueta previously noted that SIM card-related offenses often involve scams, illegal online gambling, and identity exploitation.
“Our SIM Card Registration Act is not being implemented effectively. We need new provisions,” Asueta said.
Among the recommendations being considered is the use of the Philippine national ID as the primary or sole identification document for SIM registration because of its biometric features. The ACG is also advocating for a five-SIM-card limit per person, tighter documentation requirements for SIM transfers, and enhanced monitoring of SIM card distribution and redistribution after the initial sale.
RA 11934, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in 2022, requires mobile subscribers to register their SIM cards and obliges telecommunications companies and authorized sellers to collect identification documents from users.
Cybercrime Cases Remain a Concern
The SIM Registration Act was designed to improve accountability and help authorities identify individuals involved in crimes committed through mobile devices, including text scams and online fraud. However, police data suggest that cybercrime remains a significant concern despite the law's implementation.
From January to July 2026, the PNP-ACG reported the arrest of 766 suspects in cybercrime cases, with the majority connected to online selling scams. During the same period, authorities also rescued 149 victims and secured 81 convictions.
While the legal review is ongoing, Nartatez has also instructed police units to intensify operations against the illegal sale of SIM cards and the use of unregistered SIM cards in criminal activities. The PNP said the goal is to make the law a more effective tool for crime prevention and law enforcement.
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