Fake PWD ID manufacturers nabbed

Operatives of the Manila Police District-District Intelligence Division (DID) raided a location in Sta. Cruz, Manila on Wednesday night where identification cards for persons with disabilities (PWDs) were being manufactured.

Led by P/Lt. Col. John Guiagui, officer-in-charge of the DID, the entrapment operation resulted in the arrest of three suspects and the confiscation of computers and printers used to create the fake IDs.

The counterfeit cards are widely used to obtain the 20 percent discount at restaurants. Information suggests the IDs are being used not only in Manila but nationwide.

By law, PWDs in the Philippines are entitled to several discounts, including transportation, medical care, education, basic commodities, entertainment, lodging, funeral and burial services, express lane access, and benefits continuation from government insurance agencies.

However, the fake IDs are most commonly used at restaurants.

Guiagui identified the three suspects as Maritess Esedera, Erdie Macaspac and Michelle Janaban Ronquillo. They were arrested at approximately 5:40 p.m. on 5 February 2025 in Sta. Cruz, Manila.

The suspects are currently detained at MPD headquarters and will be charged with violations of Article 171 (Falsification of Public Documents) and Article 176 (Manufacturing and Possession of Instruments or Implements for Falsification) of the Revised Penal Code at the Manila City Prosecutor’s Office.