The Iloilo City Government has assured the public that strict measures are in place to prevent the proliferation of fake persons with disability (PWD) ID cards in the city.
Acknowledging the growing concerns about fraudulent PWD IDs and their impact on local businesses, Joy Fantilaga, spokesperson for Mayor Jerry Treñas, emphasized the need to develop proactive measures to address the issue.
“As early as last year, we implemented strict measures to protect businesses from abuse while ensuring that only legitimate PWDs receive the benefits intended for them,” Fantilaga said.
In 2023, Treñas issued Executive Order 157, requiring all PWD ID cards issued by the city government to bear security labels.
Since March 2024, only PWD ID cards bearing the official security label/sticker have been honored in all establishments in the city.
“This is a reminder once again to all establishments to strictly honor only PWD cards with the security label or sticker. This directive ensures that discounts rightfully serve those who need them while protecting businesses from financial losses due to fraudulent claims,” she added.
Fantilaga said the Persons with Disability Affairs Office has already put security labels on 15,643 PWD IDs, which is almost equivalent to the number of PWDs in Iloilo City.
Meanwhile, 842 fake IDs have been confiscated so far.
The Restaurant Owners of the Philippines recently warned that widespread abuse of fake PWD IDs is financially straining businesses.
A person holding a PWD ID is entitled to a 20 percent discount when availing of services, including food, transportation, and medical services, among others.Perla Lena/PNA
