Fraud against the vulnerable
PWD IDs are regulated under Republic Act No. 7277, or the "Magna Carta for Disabled Persons," and its subsequent amendments. The benefits associated with PWD IDs include mandatory discounts (A 20% discount on goods and services such as medicine, transportation, and restaurants), tax incentives (VAT exemption on qualified purchases), and priority access. (faster access to services in public and private establishments), and employment assistance (programs to encourage the hiring of PWDs.)
The provisions under the law are meant to improve the living conditions of PWDs, ensure their integration into society, and prevent discrimination. However, the misuse and abuse of this system by non-PWD individuals has led to more legal issues.
Growing threat of fake IDs
According to a 2024 report by the Philippine Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), the government loses approximately PHP88.2 billion annually due to tax exemptions claimed fraudulently through fake PWD IDs. This financial loss not only strains the national budget but also reduces resources allocated for genuine PWD welfare programs.
Businesses also bear the burden of offering mandatory discounts to individuals who do not legitimately qualify. For small and medium enterprises, this can result in reduced profit margins and financial instability. Establishments have provided around 166 billion peso discount in 2024 for fake PWD ID users.
According to the Senate Ways and Means Committee, there are 8.5 million individuals using fake PWD IDs, but only 1.8 million of the figures are estimated to be legitimate and certified beneficiaries.
In some localities, the process of acquiring a fake PWD ID has become alarmingly simple, often involving forged medical certifications and corrupt mediators. This ease of access undermines the system's integrity and builds public mistrust in the government's ability to regulate benefits distribution.
Behind the system's weakness
Several systemic issues have been identified as contributing to the rise of fake PWD IDs, and these loopholes are easily abused by those fake beneficiaries with backers and mediators.
The issues include the lack of a unified ID system. Different municipalities issue PWD IDs, leading to inconsistent formats and verification processes. This fragmentation creates loopholes for forgery.
Another rising issue is insufficient oversight, where the weak enforcement mechanisms and the absence of a centralized database make it challenging to verify the authenticity of PWD IDs.
Corruption is the primary suspect of the increased cases of fake PWD ID issuance. Reports suggest that some government officials and healthcare providers are complicit in issuing fraudulent certifications.
Experts weigh in
The growing issue of fake PWD IDs in the Philippines has raised significant concerns among authorities. Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. said, "People who sell and use fake PWD IDs are not only committing tax evasion, they are also disrespecting legitimate and compliant PWDs."
To combat this issue, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has warned sternly against the illegal issuance, selling, and use of fake PWD identification cards.
DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao also said, "We are urging the public to report individuals involved in the issuance and sale of fake persons with disabilities ID cards, which aim to fraudulently access benefits and privileges intended for persons with disabilities."
