MANILA -- Dozens continue to complain about the long lines and slow processing in satellite offices of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). In Mandaluyong and Quezon City, the queue started before dawn. Tensions occurred after some of those lined up were not given numbers. At a mall in Ortigas, the line stretched all the way to the parking lot. Some applicants have even taken to sleeping while on queue. The NBI is appealing for more patience and understanding from the public since it is still working on the system. The NBI's contract for the system for processing clearance applications expired on December 31, and a new one is in place. But it still needs to purchase equipment for its district and regional offices. -- ANC