You’ve just finished your NBI appointment, but instead of receiving your clearance, the officer tells you, “May ‘HIT’ po kayo.” It can be a confusing and stressful moment, but before you worry, it’s important to understand that this is a very common issue and it usually does not mean you have done anything wrong.
This guide will walk you through exactly what an NBI “Hit” is, why it happens, and the clear, simple steps you need to take next.
What Exactly is an NBI “Hit”?
An NBI “Hit” is simply a data flag from the NBI’s computer system. It means that your name (or a name very similar to yours) has matched an existing record in the NBI’s national database.
This is a security measure. The NBI must then perform a manual check to verify your identity and ensure that the record does not belong to you before they can issue your clearance. Think of it as a “pause” for a human quality check, not an accusation.
Common Reasons for Getting a “Hit”
There are several reasons why you might get a “Hit.” The vast majority of cases are due to the first reason on this list.
- Having a Common Name (Namesake): This is the most frequent cause. If your name is Juan dela Cruz, there are thousands of others with the same name, and the system will flag it for verification.
- A Previous Criminal or Civil Case: Even if a past case against you was dismissed or you were acquitted, the record may still exist in the database and will require manual verification to clear. In some situations, you may be asked to submit an Affidavit of Denial to clarify that the case does not involve you.
- An Unresolved Previous “Hit”: If you had a “Hit” on a past NBI clearance and did not wait for the cleared copy, the flag may still be on your record.
- A Pending Arrest Warrant: In rare cases, the “Hit” could be for a legitimate pending case or warrant, either for you or a namesake. The NBI verification process will determine this.
What to Do Immediately at the NBI Branch
The moment you are told you have a “Hit,” follow these simple steps.
- Stay Calm and Listen. Don’t panic. This is a routine procedure. Listen carefully to the instructions from the NBI personnel.
- Receive Your Claim Stub. The officer will return your official receipt, often stamped with a new date. This is now your new claim stub. Do not lose it.
- Confirm the Return Date. The new date to claim your clearance will be on the stub. It’s always a good idea to verbally confirm this date with the officer. It is typically 5 to 10 working days later.
- Ask If You Need to Do Anything Else. In most cases, the answer will be, “No, just wait and come back on this date.” But it never hurts to ask for clarity.
The Waiting Period: How Long Will it Take?
The NBI uses the 5-to-10-day waiting period to allow their verification officers to manually check your records against the record that was flagged. They will examine details like your date of birth, place of birth, and parents’ names to confirm your identity. There is nothing you can do to speed up this internal process.
Claiming Your Clearance After a “Hit”
- Return on the Specified Date: Go back to the same NBI branch on the date indicated on your claim stub. Proceed directly to the “Releasing” window.
- Present Your Documents: Show them your new claim stub (the original receipt with the new date stamp) and at least one valid ID.
- Using a Representative: If you cannot return yourself, you can authorize a trusted friend or family member to claim it for you. They will need an Authorization Letter and the documents mentioned in our separate guide on that topic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about NBI “Hits”
No, not at all. More than 95% of “Hits” are simply due to having a common name. It’s a verification step, not a finding of guilt.
Unfortunately, no. The 5-to-10-day period is for the NBI’s internal verification process. The best thing you can do is wait patiently and return on your scheduled date.
In very rare and complex cases (for example, if a namesake has a serious pending case), you may be asked to speak with an NBI agent for a brief interview to further verify your identity. If this happens, just answer their questions about your personal details honestly.
Conclusion
Getting an NBI “Hit” is a delay, not a disaster. It is a standard security procedure designed to protect the integrity of the NBI Clearance and to ensure that it is issued to the correct person. By understanding the process, staying calm, and patiently following the steps, you will get your cleared document.
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