Identifying Marks in NBI Clearance Meaning Importance and Examples
Identifying Marks Means
In simple words, identifying marks are special or unique signs on your body that make you different from other people. These marks can be anything noticeable like a mole, scar, birthmark, dimple, tattoo, or burn mark.
Everyone has something unique about their body, even if it’s small. When you apply for NBI Clearance in the Philippines, you are asked to mention your identifying marks. The purpose is not about appearance but about identity verification.
For example, if someone has a mole on the left cheek or a tattoo on their right arm, it helps NBI confirm who that person really is. It’s part of keeping accurate and safe identification records. Visit nearest NBI Centers to obtain your clearance.
Identifying Marks in Tagalog
In Tagalog, “identifying marks” are called “natatanging palatandaan” or “tanda ng pagkakakilanlan.”
These marks help recognize a person easily. For instance:
- A mole on your nose = nunal sa ilong
- A scar on your right arm = peklat sa kanang braso
- A tattoo on your neck = tattoo sa leeg
When filling out the NBI form, you can describe your identifying marks in English or Tagalog whichever you’re more comfortable with as long as the meaning is clear.
Importance of Identifying Marks in NBI Clearance
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) uses identifying marks to make sure every clearance is issued to the right person. These marks help prevent mistakes and confusion during background checks.
Here are the main reasons why identifying marks are important in NBI clearance:
- Accurate Identification:
If two people share the same name, NBI can still tell them apart by comparing their identifying marks. - Avoiding Misidentification:
Marks help officers confirm that you are not mixed up with someone else who may have a criminal record. - Faster Processing:
It speeds up the clearance process since your identity is easily confirmed. - Stronger Security:
Identifying marks make the clearance more reliable and reduce chances of fraud or impersonation. - Permanent Record:
Marks are stored securely in the NBI database, along with your photo, fingerprints, and biometrics.
Benefits of Identifying Marks in NBI Clearance
Providing identifying marks offers benefits not only to NBI but also to the applicant. Below are some of the key advantages:
- Helps NBI Recognize You Quickly: Your identifying marks make it easier for the system to find your record instantly.
- Reduces Errors: Prevents someone else from using your details or getting a clearance in your name.
- Saves Time: During verification, officers can quickly confirm your identity without delay.
- Protects from Fraud: Stops criminals from using fake identities.
- Supports Law Enforcement: Makes tracking and investigation more accurate in criminal cases.
In short, identifying marks make the whole NBI clearance process safer, faster, and more secure for everyone.
How to Find Identifying Marks on Your Body
Before applying for your NBI clearance, it’s best to check your body carefully so you can list all visible marks correctly.
Here’s how you can find them:
- Look in Natural Light:
Stand near a window or use daylight to clearly see your skin. - Use a Mirror:
Some areas like your back, shoulders, or neck may not be visible directly. Use a big mirror or ask someone you trust to help you spot marks. - Note Down Each Mark:
Write a small list of the marks you find. Example: “small mole on left arm,” “scar on right elbow.” - Describe Their Features:
Record the size, color, and shape — for example, “round black mole about 1 cm.” - Be Honest:
You don’t have to list every tiny freckle, but you should include marks that are clear and visible.
Remember, you can always update this information during renewal if your identifying marks change (for example, if you get a new tattoo or surgery scar).
How to Describe Identifying Marks in NBI Clearance Application Form
When filling out your NBI Clearance Application Form, you must write a short and clear description of your identifying marks. Here’s how to do it properly:
- Mention the Type of Mark:
Example: mole, scar, tattoo, birthmark, or dimple. - Add Its Location:
Say exactly where it is, such as “on left cheek,” “on right arm,” or “on forehead.” - Include the Side (Left or Right):
Always specify left or right to avoid confusion. - Add Details (Optional):
If possible, mention color or size (like “small round brown mole”).
Example Entries:
- “Mole on left cheek.”
- “Tattoo on right wrist.”
- “Scar on left knee due to accident.”
- “Dimple on right cheek.”
If you have more than one identifying mark, separate them with commas (e.g., “Mole on left cheek, scar on right elbow”).
Identifying Marks Example in NBI Clearance
Here are some simple examples of identifying marks you can mention in your NBI Clearance:
| Type of Mark | Example Description |
| Mole (Nunal) | Small black mole on the left cheek |
| Birthmark | Brown spot on the center of the chin |
| Scar | Scar on right wrist from an old injury |
| Burn Mark | Burn mark on left hand thumb |
| Tattoo | Star tattoo on right shoulder |
| Dimple | Dimple on right cheek |
| Surgical Scar | Scar on lower abdomen after surgery |
Each of these marks is unique and helps the NBI identify the person accurately.
Identifying Marks of a Person
Every person has at least one identifying mark, even if it’s small. It may be a mole you were born with or a mark that appeared later due to injury or surgery.
There are three main types of identifying marks:
- Natural Marks:
Moles, freckles, or birthmarks you’ve had since birth. - Accidental Marks:
Scars or burns caused by accidents or injuries. - Artificial Marks:
Tattoos or piercings that you intentionally added to your body.
These marks remain part of your personal identity and help in official and security-related verifications.
How NBI Uses Identifying Marks
The NBI records your identifying marks in its secure database along with your photo, fingerprints, and biometrics.
Here’s how they use this data:
- Verification:
During background checks, if two people have the same name, identifying marks help NBI officers tell them apart. - Security:
Prevents others from claiming your identity or using your details illegally. - Record Keeping:
Your marks are stored for future reference during renewals or investigations. - Confidential Storage:
These details are not shown on your NBI clearance certificate but are securely kept in the NBI system for official use only.
This makes the entire NBI identification process reliable, private, and accurate
Difference Between Identifying Marks & Complexion
| Feature | Identifying Marks | Complexion |
| Meaning | Unique marks on your body (mole, scar, tattoo, etc.) | Natural skin tone or color |
| Purpose | Helps NBI identify a person by physical features | Helps NBI record overall appearance |
| Changes Over Time | Can appear or disappear (injuries, tattoos, surgery) | May slightly change due to sun exposure |
| Examples | Mole on chin, tattoo on arm, scar on leg | Fair, brown, dark, white, yellow |
| Visibility in Certificate | Not shown on NBI certificate | Only recorded in database |
Both are important, but identifying marks give more precise physical details, while complexion provides general appearance.
Final Words
Identifying marks are a small but very important part of your NBI clearance application. They help NBI confirm your identity, prevent errors, and ensure your record stays unique and secure.
Whether it’s a mole, scar, tattoo, or birthmark, each mark tells something about you that no one else can copy. That’s why it’s important to list them honestly and clearly in your NBI Clearance Form.
By doing so, you make the clearance process smoother, safer, and faster for yourself and for the NBI officers handling your case.
FAQ’s
Q1: What does identifying marks mean in NBI?
It means any special sign or mark on your body that makes you different from others, like a mole, scar, or tattoo.
Q2: Why does NBI ask for identifying marks?
To verify your identity and avoid confusion between people who have the same name.
Q3: What should I write if I have no visible mark?
You can write “None” or “N/A” if you truly have no visible marks.
Q4: Do I need to mention my tattoo?
Yes, tattoos are considered identifying marks and should be mentioned.
Q5: Will my identifying marks appear on the NBI certificate?
No, they are stored in the NBI database but not printed on your certificate.
Q6: Can identifying marks change over time?
Yes, they can appear or disappear due to accidents, surgeries, or tattoos.
Q7: What if I write the wrong mark by mistake?
You can correct or update it during your next renewal.
Q8: Are identifying marks required for all applicants?
Yes, every applicant must fill out this section accurately.
Q9: What language should I use when describing my marks?
You can use English or Tagalog as long as it is clear.
Q10: Do identifying marks affect clearance approval?
No, they do not affect approval they are just for accurate identification.
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