Below is a comprehensive legal-style discussion on the “Affidavit of Loss for PhilHealth ID” in the Philippines. This article will explain what an affidavit of loss is, why it is required for replacing a lost PhilHealth ID, the typical contents of such an affidavit, how and where to have it prepared and notarized, and other vital considerations under Philippine regulations.

1. What is an Affidavit of Loss?

An Affidavit of Loss is a sworn written statement executed by a person under oath, declaring that a document or property—such as a PhilHealth ID—has been lost, stolen, or destroyed, and that all efforts to locate or recover it have failed. In the Philippines, the Affidavit of Loss serves as an official attestation of the loss, which many government agencies and private institutions require before issuing a replacement or allowing a new application.

Key Elements of an Affidavit of Loss

Personal Information of the Affiant: The affiant’s (the person executing the affidavit) full name, address, and other identifying details.
Details of the Lost Item: In this case, details about the lost PhilHealth ID, including the ID number (if available), approximate date of issue, and any other relevant identifying information.
Circumstances of the Loss: Explanation of how, when, and where the PhilHealth ID was lost, stolen, or destroyed, and confirmation that all efforts to locate it have failed.
Statement of Good Faith: A declaration that the affiant is executing the document truthfully and without intent to defraud.
Signature of the Affiant and Notarization: The document must be signed by the affiant in front of a notary public to be valid for official transactions.

2. Why Is an Affidavit of Loss Required for a Lost PhilHealth ID?

2.1. Proof of Loss

Philippine agencies generally require an official sworn statement to ensure the accuracy and validity of a claim that an ID is missing. The Affidavit of Loss acts as legal proof that the previous ID is no longer in the possession of the holder and has not been maliciously transferred or sold.

2.2. Prevention of Fraud

Requiring an affidavit discourages people from misusing or duplicating IDs. It adds a layer of security and documentation to prevent identity theft or fraudulent use of a PhilHealth ID.

2.3. Regulatory Compliance

Government offices, including PhilHealth, follow certain rules and guidelines to replace lost documents. The Affidavit of Loss is one of the standard documentary requirements as per the rules on official documents in the Philippines.

3. General Procedure for Obtaining an Affidavit of Loss

Drafting the Affidavit
- You can write your own Affidavit of Loss or use a template provided by a law office. Templates are often straightforward, indicating the details of the lost document and a sworn statement that the affiant no longer has it.
Preparation of Documentary Proof
- You should gather any secondary evidence that proves you owned the PhilHealth ID, such as a PhilHealth membership number or a previously issued PhilHealth ID photocopy (if available). This information can help strengthen the affidavit’s credibility.
Execution Before a Notary Public
- The affiant must bring a valid government-issued ID or other acceptable identification to the notary public to confirm their identity.
- The affiant must sign the affidavit in front of the notary public.
- The notary public affixes their notarial seal and signature, making the affidavit legally valid.
Notarial Fees
- Notarial fees vary depending on the location and notary public. These fees are regulated, but there is no strict uniform rate across the entire country. Expect to pay in the range of Php 100 to Php 300 or more, depending on the notary’s standard fee schedule and other factors.

4. Requirements for Replacement of a Lost PhilHealth ID

Once you have your notarized Affidavit of Loss, you can bring it to the nearest PhilHealth branch or service office to request a replacement ID. The general requirements often include:

Notarized Affidavit of Loss – This is the principal document stating that your PhilHealth ID was lost or destroyed.
Valid Government-Issued ID or Proof of Identity – Present one or more valid IDs (e.g., driver’s license, SSS ID, passport, postal ID, etc.).
PhilHealth Membership Information – If you have a PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN) or other proofs of membership, provide them to expedite verification.
Duly Accomplished PhilHealth Forms – Some offices may require you to fill out a request or update form (often the PhilHealth Member Registration Form, also known as PMRF), stating that this request is for a replacement ID.
Payment (if applicable) – PhilHealth typically issues the paper-based Member Data Record (MDR) and PhilHealth ID for free. However, if you are requesting a new “digitized PhilHealth Insurance Card” (distinct from the free paper-based ID), a minimal fee might be required.

5. Format and Contents of the Affidavit of Loss (Sample Outline)

Below is a simplified outline you might follow when drafting your Affidavit of Loss:

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES)
___________________________ ) S.S.

AFFIDAVIT OF LOSS

     I, (Your Name), of legal age, Filipino, single/married, and a resident of (Your Address), after being duly sworn in accordance with law, hereby depose and say:

1. That I am a registered member of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) with PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN) ____________, issued on or about (Date of Issue) at (Place of Issue).

2. That the said PhilHealth ID was lost/ misplaced/stolen on or about (Date when you noticed the loss) while (Circumstances of the loss) and despite diligent efforts, I have been unable to locate or recover the same.

3. That I am executing this Affidavit of Loss to attest to the truth of the foregoing facts and for the purpose of complying with the requirement of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation to replace my lost PhilHealth ID, and for any other legal purpose it may serve.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this ___ day of __________, 20___ in (City/Municipality), Philippines.

                                                 ______________________
                                                        Affiant
SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN to before me this ___ day of ___________, 20___, in (City/Municipality), Philippines, affiant exhibiting to me his/her (Valid Government ID, number, and date of issue).

                                                  ______________________
                                                        Notary Public
Doc. No. ____;
Page No. ____;
Book No. ____;
Series of ____.

6. Practical Tips and Important Reminders

Ensure Accuracy
- Double-check your details (name, address, PhilHealth number, etc.). Errors may lead to rejection of the document or delays.
Notarization is Mandatory
- An unsigned, non-notarized statement of loss will not usually be accepted by PhilHealth as it lacks legal validity.
Personal Appearance
- You must appear in person before the notary public. Do not sign the affidavit beforehand; sign only in the notary’s presence.
Keep a Copy
- Always keep a personal copy of the notarized affidavit (or even multiple copies). Offices may sometimes request an original, and you may need a spare copy for future reference.
Check for Any Updated Procedures
- PhilHealth procedures can change. It is always prudent to confirm specific requirements by contacting the PhilHealth hotline (8441-7442) or visiting the PhilHealth website (www.philhealth.gov.ph) if you have access. (Note: This is for general reference; with no active internet in certain settings, confirm via direct phone call or an in-person visit.)

7. Applicable Laws and Regulations

Notarial Practice
- The 2004 Rules on Notarial Practice govern the conduct of notaries public in the Philippines. They set out requirements for identification, recordkeeping, and the form of notarized documents.
Civil Code Provisions on Affidavits and Sworn Statements
- While there is no single specific law solely on Affidavits of Loss, general provisions on evidence, documents, and sworn statements apply (i.e., the rules under Civil Procedure, Rules of Court).
PhilHealth Policies
- PhilHealth Circulars and internal guidelines on membership registration, identification cards, and replacement processes guide how the agency accepts and processes Affidavits of Loss.

8. Conclusion

An Affidavit of Loss for a PhilHealth ID in the Philippines is a critical legal document needed to replace a missing or stolen PhilHealth card. It serves as a sworn declaration of the circumstances under which the ID was lost and provides assurance to PhilHealth that the ID is genuinely unaccounted for. By drafting the affidavit properly, having it duly notarized, and gathering all required replacement documents, individuals can streamline the process of obtaining a new PhilHealth ID.

Before heading to the PhilHealth office, be sure to follow the recommended steps—ensure the affidavit is properly executed, check on any updated requirements, and prepare valid proof of identity. With these measures in place, your PhilHealth ID replacement should be straightforward and compliant with the relevant regulations in the Philippines.

Disclaimer: This article provides a general overview of the process and does not constitute legal advice. For specific inquiries or legal questions, consult a licensed attorney or the nearest PhilHealth office.