Finally I was successful in my application for an SSS ID. Although for a while back there this morning, I thought I wasn't going to finish my application yet again. Government offices are so slow. Tsk Tsk. Their system is flawed. If you haven't experienced getting an ID from SSS yet or transacting any kind of business with government offices yet, allow me to paint the picture for you.

Scenario at SSS Application for an ID:

8am: I arrived at the SSS office, still puffy eyed from being up all night and lo and behold: already the office is crowded.

8:05: Submitted the SSS E-6 form at the desk and then I stand there waiting for my name to be called.

9:00: Gosh I haven't been called yet. I need to be at the office by 10:30!

It didn't help matters either that some of the applicants just don't know how to read signs. They approach the grumpy woman in her desk, holding their filled up form and asks: "Ms. ibibigay na ba 'to sa iyo?" I mean, hello?! Can't you read the sign? That very big sign by her desk that would have bitten you if you were a snake? It clearly says place E-6 form here, upside down and be seated!

There's only one person manning the desk of the ID application. Just one to assist everyone else applying for an initial ID or a renewal. Why can't they separate those two? It'll be much easier.

9:15: Oh finally! My turn! Say what? My name's not Romenza! Ugh! I hate it when people mispronounce my name. So I presented my two valid IDs and waited again to be called for an ID picture taking.

9:45: No! My name's not Romenza!! But anyhow it's my turn finally. I got my pic taken and upon emerging from the cubicle, I was all smiles already.

10:15: I arrive at the office. Oh yeah! I did it! Now all I have to do is wait for the ID to come from the mail.

Scenario not so bad? Well not if you're not in a hurry because you have to go to work or somewhere else important that also has a certain hour to beat. I tell you, I was lucky I got to the office on time and were able to finish my ID application. I had to wake up very early just to get there at 8am. If you plan to apply for an SSS ID, don't bother iwhen you see the clock read 9:00am. You're gonna be there a loooooooonnnnngggg time.

Although I did hear that there are times when you can get really lucky - you'll find the SSS ID Office not crowded with people. In fact there's barely anyone there. But I think this scenario happens once in a blue moon only.