LAWMAKER SEEKS INVESTIGATION INTO IMPLEMENTATION OF PWD LAW

AMID reports that there are individuals who fake their disability to get a person with disability (PWD) ID, a leader of the House of Representatives on Tuesday called for an investigation into the implementation of the law expanding the benefits and privileges extended to PWDs.

In a news conference, House Committee on Games and Amusement Chairman Eric Go Yap of ACT-CIS said due to the decentralized issuance of PWD IDs, there is a possibility of abuse by some unethical and imprudent individuals like those who have listed illegitimate beneficiaries.

According to Yap, he recently asked 15 normal people to get a PWD ID and they successfully secured the ID after paying P2,000 to P3,000 to fixers in Manila and Quezon City.

“There have been reports on individuals who fake their disability to get a PWD ID in order to enjoy PWD discounts and privileges, and on fixers giving the guarantee of the issuance of PWD IDs to those interested,” he said.

“These cases of abuse challenge the essence of the law which aims to ensure that only those with legitimate disability are granted with benefits they truly deserve,” Yap added.

Under Republic Act 10754, those who are issued with the

PWD ID can avail themselves of 20-percent discount and valueadded tax (VAT) exemption plus a 5 percent on basic necessities and prime commodities.

Yap said the enactment of RA 10754 grants any Filipino with longterm physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairment which in interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others to get a standard identification card for PWD.

“Those who wish to apply for a PWD ID need to prepare the requirements as proof of entitlement, which include a document or a certificate confirming the medical or disability condition, and submit it to the Persons with Disability Affairs Office [PDAO] of the city hall or municipal hall of residence, the City/Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, the City/Municipal Health Office or its satellite offices, the Office of the Mayor, or the Office of the Barangay Captain,” he added.

Meanwhile, Yap urged individuals who fake their disability to surrender their PWD ID to their respective local government unit to avoid facing criminal charges.

“While I believe that mayors are not involved in this modus, I am urging them to review the implementation of this PWD law,” the lawmaker said.