House Speaker Urges Vigilance on Unified Identification Card for Persons with Disabilities
House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez emphasized the importance of vigilance following the rollout of the unified identification card for persons with disabilities (PWDs). He urged all stakeholders to prevent fraud and safeguard the rights of PWDs and establishments alike, local leaders noted.
Romualdez highlighted that the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has invested significant effort into developing a reliable unified identification card for persons with disabilities. “The DSWD has worked hard to make this system as foolproof as possible. But we must all remain vigilant. Let’s verify IDs, report abuses, and keep improving the system so it truly serves those who need it,” he said.
Unified Identification Card for Persons with Disabilities Enhances Access and Security
According to officials, the unified identification card for persons with disabilities will streamline access to services by reducing delays and confusion. Romualdez explained that this new system is designed not only to ease the delivery of benefits but also to address the persistent issue of fraudulent PWD IDs.
“This unified ID will make life easier for our PWDs by ensuring that services and benefits reach them without delay, confusion, or unfair treatment. At the same time, it is a strong response to the long-standing abuse of fraudulent PWD IDs that hurt businesses and cast doubt on legitimate beneficiaries,” community members said.
Security Features Strengthen Unified Identification Card for Persons with Disabilities
The National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) reported that the unified identification card for persons with disabilities incorporates several advanced security features. These include a digital ID accessible via mobile app or web portal, a QR code for instant verification by establishments, and an RFID-enabled physical card for added protection.
The pilot phase of the program covers 200,000 PWDs across 35 local government units nationwide, according to sources familiar with the initiative. This rollout aims to curb the misuse of fake PWD IDs, which some individuals use to illegitimately claim discounts.
Legislative Support for PWD Benefits and Discounts
Under Romualdez’s leadership, the House continues to support measures enhancing welfare for persons with disabilities. Alongside Tingog Partylist representatives, Romualdez filed House Bill No. 16, which mandates that businesses honor PWD and senior citizen discounts even on promotional products.
“Our PWDs are also playing a part in nation-building and the improvement of our country. It is only rightful that the benefits specified by laws are given to them,” local officials affirmed.
Commitment to Protecting PWD Rights
Romualdez underscored that the unified identification card for persons with disabilities represents more than just a digital upgrade. “The unified PWD ID system is not just digitalization at work — it is compassion, recognition, and justice made real for our PWDs,” he remarked.
He encouraged everyone to remain proactive in verifying IDs and reporting abuses to ensure the system benefits those it is meant to serve. This collaborative effort between government agencies and communities is vital to uphold the dignity and rights of persons with disabilities.
For more news and updates on the unified identification card for persons with disabilities, visit Filipinokami.com.
