Angara calls for probe into reported spread of ‘fake’ PWD IDs

MANILA, Philippines — Senator Sonny Angara on Thursday sought an investigation into the alleged proliferation of “fake” PWD (persons with disability) IDs.

This, as he expressed concern over reports that unqualified individuals were able to obtain such IDs and abuse discounts intended for PWDs.

In filing Senate Resolution No. 455, Angara noted that issues regarding “fake” PWD IDs resurfaced after a photo showing an entire family with PWD cards recently went viral on social media.

Angara, one of the authors and sponsor of Republic Act No. 10754 or the law expanding the benefits and privileges of PWDs, also called for a review of the processes involved in the issuance of the PWD IDs.

“RA 10754 is intended to provide PWDs the opportunity to participate fully into the mainstream of society by providing them with at least 20% discount and exemption from the value-added tax on the purchase of goods and services such as food, movie tickets, medicine, and transport fares. It is unconscionable, to say the least, for some people to abuse this for their own benefit,” the senator said.

“We need to tighten up the process involved in issuing these cards so that only legitimate PWDs will enjoy the benefits under the law,” he added.

Citing guidelines issued by the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), Angara noted that a PWD ID is issued to any bonafide PWD with permanent disabilities due to any one or more of the following conditions: psychosocial, chronic illness, learning, mental, visual, orthopedic, speech and hearing conditions.

“The exploitation on the use of the benefits and privileges specifically intended to help alleviate any financial burden encountered by PWDs should not be tolerated especially at this time when establishments like restaurants, entertainment centers, and hotels are still struggling from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Angara said.

“A review of the implementation of this provision of the law is clearly needed so that the appropriate safeguards would be introduced to ensure only those who are in actual need of the benefits and privileges are granted such while also protecting the establishments against abuses,” he added.

KGA