By Rjay Zuriaga Castor
The National Bureau of Investigation Western Visayas (NBI-6) clarified that a “hit” status, or “with hit,” in obtaining an NBI clearance will remain in subsequent applications but promised faster processing for reapplicants.
NBI-6 acting director Atty. Jeremiah Sargado emphasized that while the hit status cannot be cleared, the process will be more seamless for those applying for a second time or more.
A hit status occurs when an applicant’s name matches or closely resembles that of an individual with a criminal record or pending case in the NBI database.
“Once you receive a hit and it’s proven you are not the same person with a criminal record, you will receive a hit again in your next clearance application, but you won’t need to go through an interview,” Sargado explained.
When an applicant receives a hit status, the NBI conducts a more thorough investigation, which can delay the clearance issuance by a week or more.
Instead of same-day release, applicants are given a receipt with a specific date and time to return for their clearance.
Sargado also noted the availability of the NBI Clearance on Wheels, which brings clearance application services directly to communities.
“We cater to communities or residents who can no longer travel to our regional and district offices,” he said.
Schools and communities can request a Clearance on Wheels service in their area, but the request must be justified.
NBI-6 data shows the regional office in Iloilo City has already issued over 2,000 clearances through its mobile service.
The Bacolod City district office has issued 425 clearances, while the Antique office has processed 507.
As of September 2024, NBI-6 has issued a total of 117,905 NBI clearances.
