The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is planning to roll out a unified identification system for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) before the year ends. This initiative aims to streamline the issuance of PWD IDs and tackle the growing issue of fake IDs in the country.
DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao shared this update during an interview on Super Radyo dzBB. She emphasized that the new unified ID will have a standard design and enhanced security features, making it easier for establishments like restaurants and shops to verify real IDs.
Currently, the design of PWD IDs varies across local government units (LGUs), which has made it simpler for fake IDs to slip through. The lack of a standardized format has been exploited by unscrupulous individuals. With the upcoming unified system, the DSWD hopes to close this gap and ensure that only legitimate PWDs receive the benefits entitled to them.
The DSWD is working with other agencies to successfully implement the new ID system. They are partnering with the National Privacy Commission to protect the personal data of persons with disabilities (PWDs), and with the Department of Information and Communications Technology and the Philippine Statistics Authority to streamline the issuance process and improve efficiency.
Under Republic Act 10754, PWDs are entitled to a 20% discount and VAT exemption on the purchase of certain goods and services exclusively for their use.
If you are a PWD, keep an eye out for updates on the new unified ID. Businesses should also prepare for changes in verification processes to continue supporting the PWD community. Stay tuned for more updates.
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