The Department of Social Welfare and Development issued a firm notice on Saturday warning individuals against cheating the system using fake documents to obtain government aid.

DSWD Asst. Secretary Irene Dumlao explained that the use of forged ID cards or false documentation, particularly when acquiring government services, is a clear violation of law.

“Mahigpit po naming pinapaalalahanan ang publiko na huwag gumamit ng pekeng identification cards o anumang falsified na dokumento…ito po ay mahigpit na ipinagbabawal at may kaukulang pananagutan sa ilalim ng ating Revised Penal Code,” she stated.

People found using falsified documents may face imprisonment ranging from six months to six years, while government officials are subject to six to twelve years’ imprisonment under Articles 171 and 172 of the RPC.

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

Reports from the social worker at the DSWD’s Field Office in the National Capital Region said the man was immediately reported to police officers from the Barbasa Police Station in Quezon City after the revelation.

Dumlao further explained that the DSWD will be diligent in filing charges against any individuals found violating the law and encouraged the public to do the same.

“Hindi magdadalawang-isip ang DSWD na magsampa ng kaso laban sa sinumang mapatunayang gumagamit ng mga pekeng dokumento,” she asserted.