Unified PWD ID system sought

MANILA, Philippines — The National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) is eyeing to implement a unified identification system for people with disabilities to put a stop to the illegal and unscrupulous use of PWD IDs.

NCDA executive director Glenda Relova said the council wants to adopt a unified ID system to curb the sale of PWD IDs to “fake persons” or those who do not really have disabilities.

Relova added that they expect this strategy to ensure that the provisions of Republic Act 10754, or An Act Expanding the Benefits and Privileges of
 Persons with Disability, are upheld.

At a press briefing of the Department of Social Welfare and Development last Thursday, Relova sounded the alarm on illegal and unscrupulous use of such IDs by “fake” PWDs to avail themselves of benefits and privileges provided in the law.

“We appeal to the public to report to the NCDA individuals or groups that are facilitating the sale and illegal use of PWD IDs. We bear the burden caused by these people,” she added.

Reports may be submitted to the NCDA through email [email protected] or through the agency’s social media pages.

Concerned citizens may also report to the Persons with Disability Affairs Office of their local government units or to any law enforcement agency.

Under the law, PWDs are entitled to 20-percent discount and exemption from value-added tax (VAT) on the purchase of certain goods and services; reiteration of the rights of persons with disability to avail of social insurance; educational assistance; special discounts in the purchase of basic necessities and prime commodities and express lanes in all commercial and government establishments.