The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Wednesday reiterated its warning about the use of fake persons with disabilities identification cards, which are affecting small businesses, particularly in the food industry.

“The Department is disturbed by the use of fake persons with disabilities IDs that harm honest businesses in the country, especially those from the food industry. This concern gravely undermines the progress that we have made towards creating an inclusive society for all vulnerable sectors,” DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said.

She also emphasized that under Republic Act 10754 (Act Expanding Benefits and Privileges of Persons with Disabilities), individuals with disabilities are entitled to discounts and privileges to help them access opportunities for a fuller and more productive life.

“We cannot deny the fact that persons with disabilities face societal barriers every day. By misusing the IDs to take advantage of the discounts and privileges intended for them, unscrupulous individuals are taking away the services and support that they need leading to more harm to the members of the vulnerable sector,” Dumlao pointed out.

Earlier, the DSWD announced the pilot implementation of a unified identification card system for persons with disabilities this year. The unified system will feature a standardized design and a digital counterpart to prevent the misuse of fake IDs.

Dumlao also urged citizens to report individuals involved in the illegal use and sale of fake disability IDs to the proper authorities.

The public may report incidents to the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) via email at council@ncda.gov.ph or through their social media pages. Reports can also be made to the Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) under local government units (LGUs) or to any law enforcement agency.