Pilot test of unified PWD ID system set for July -DSWD

The Department of Social Welfare and Development announced on Friday that the pilot test for the unified persons with disability identification system will commence in July 2025, coinciding with National Disability Rights Week.

At a press conference, DSWD Assistant Secretary for International Affairs and Attached Supervised Agencies Elaine Fallarcuna stated that the pilot testing, running from July to December 2025, will involve 32 local government units nationwide and cover 200,000 PWDs. Full implementation is expected in 2026.

"For the last week of June, since there will be a 90-day period to develop the system, we will present it to the Secretary. And then hopefully, by the time that we will celebrate the National Disability Rights Week, the unified ID system will be launched," Fallarcuna said.

The initiative aims to curb the proliferation of fake PWD IDs, which has resulted in an estimated P88.2 billion in tax losses. It was announced by officials from DSWD, the National Council on Disability Affairs, and the Bureau of Internal Revenue during a Philippine Information Agency press conference.

Fallarcuna emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s commitment to enhancing PWD welfare. 

The new ID system will integrate advanced security features such as QR codes and linkage with the Philippine Identification System to prevent unauthorized access to benefits. 

It will also introduce a self-registration feature and digital ID generation for streamlined processing. 

The NCDA has established a Data Management Unit to oversee ID issuance.

BIR Commissioner Atty. Romeo Lumagi Jr. highlighted the financial impact of fraudulent PWD IDs, stressing that their misuse not only constitutes tax evasion but also disrespects legitimate PWDs. 

He urged establishments to verify ID authenticity before granting discounts.

Under the law, PWDs are entitled to a 20% discount on essential goods and services, including medical fees, transportation, and lodging. 

The misuse of these benefits significantly affects government revenues.

To support the system's implementation, a technical working group has been formed to draft a Joint Memorandum Circular between the Department of the Interior and Local Government, DSWD, and the Department of Health. 

"The NCDA board approved the creation of the technical working group on the development of the policies in relation to the implementation of the unified ID system," Fallarcuna stated. 

The group will also oversee amendments to the administrative order governing PWD ID issuance.

These measures aim to restore integrity to the PWD ID system, ensuring only eligible individuals receive benefits while protecting government funds. — DVM, GMA Integrated News