MANILA, Philippines — Nearly six million persons with disability (PWD) identification cards are unaccounted for in government registration figures, raising concerns over the possible widespread use of fraudulent IDs to obtain discounts and other benefits intended for qualified beneficiaries.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) raised the alarm on Thursday, October 8, after identifying a significant discrepancy between the number of registered persons with disabilities and individuals reportedly using PWD identification cards nationwide.

Citing information from the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), DOJ Chief State Counsel Dennis Arvin Chan said approximately 8.5 million individuals were reportedly using PWD IDs, despite official records showing only around 2.8 million registered persons with disabilities.

The figures point to a discrepancy of nearly six million, prompting the DOJ to examine possible irregularities in the issuance and use of PWD identification cards.

However, the difference between the two figures does not, by itself, establish that every unaccounted ID is fraudulent.

Fake PWD ID users, issuers may face criminal charges

The DOJ warned that individuals who knowingly use falsified PWD IDs to claim benefits they are not entitled to could face criminal prosecution.

Possible charges include falsification of public documents and estafa through falsification of public documents, depending on the circumstances and evidence.

Government officials involved in the improper issuance of PWD IDs may also be held accountable under Republic Act No. 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

Doctors who knowingly provide falsified medical certificates to support fraudulent PWD applications could likewise face criminal liability.

Chan emphasized that the DOJ is preparing a legal opinion to clarify the responsibilities of establishments, issuing agencies, and individuals involved in questionable PWD ID transactions.

The initiative seeks to address fraudulent practices that may result in financial losses for businesses and the government while undermining benefits intended for legitimate PWD cardholders.

Businesses urged to report suspicious IDs

The DOJ also reminded business establishments that they may take legal action when presented with a suspected fraudulent PWD identification card.

However, Chan clarified that establishments cannot require prior verification of an ID as a condition for granting benefits to a person presenting a PWD card.

Under Republic Act No. 10754 and its implementing rules, eligible benefits must be extended upon presentation of the identification card.

Businesses may subsequently coordinate with the local government unit that issued the ID to verify its authenticity.

If an investigation establishes that the document was falsified or improperly issued, the establishment may pursue appropriate legal remedies against those responsible.

The DOJ stressed that the verification process must respect the rights of legitimate persons with disabilities, including those whose conditions may not be immediately visible.

Government moves to strengthen PWD ID verification

The concerns come as the NCDA works toward establishing a unified national PWD identification system designed to make verification more reliable and prevent fraudulent registrations.

The proposed system incorporates QR codes or barcodes linked to a centralized database, allowing authorized personnel to validate identification cards more efficiently.

According to the Philippine Information Agency, the NCDA is coordinating with local government units and Persons with Disability Affairs Offices to standardize registration and improve the accuracy of disability records.

The initiative also seeks to eliminate duplicate registrations and strengthen protections for individuals with non-apparent disabilities who may face discrimination when claiming their legally mandated benefits.

Meanwhile, the DOJ is finalizing its legal guidance to help businesses and government agencies determine the appropriate action against fraudulent PWD IDs.

The department reiterated that individuals who deliberately misuse disability privileges, as well as public officials and medical practitioners who participate in fraudulent issuance, may be held accountable under existing laws.

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