The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) issued a firm warning on Saturday against individuals who cheat the system through the use of fake documents to obtain government assistance.

DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao explained that the use of forged ID cards or falsified documents, particularly for accessing government services, is a clear violation of the law.

“We want to remind the public that we are strictly prohibiting the use of fake ID cards or falsified documents. This is prohibited and is a punishable offense under the Revised Penal Code,” she said.

Individuals found using falsified documents may face imprisonment ranging from six months to six years, while government officials may be penalized with imprisonment of six to 12 years under Articles 171 and 172 of the Revised Penal Code.

Dumlao issued the warning after a male individual applied for medical assistance under the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program using a fake person with disability ID card on 11 February.

A report from a social worker at the DSWD National Capital Region field office said the individual was immediately reported to police officers from the Barbasa Police Station in Quezon City upon discovery of the falsified document.

Dumlao said the DSWD will not hesitate to file charges against individuals found violating the law and encouraged the public to report similar cases.

“We at the DSWD will not have second thoughts in filing a case against anyone proven to be using fake documents,” she said.