DOJ flags millions of unaccounted PWD IDs

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has raised concerns over the proliferation of fake persons with disabilities (PWD) identification cards, warning that their misuse could cause significant financial losses to businesses and the government.

Chief State Counsel Dennis Arvin Chan said around six million PWD IDs remain unaccounted for, despite only 2.8 million PWDs being officially registered.

Chan disclosed the figures during a DOJ press conference, citing a request from the National Council on Disability Affairs for the department to address the proliferation and use of counterfeit PWD IDs.

Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida urged the public to stop using fake IDs, stressing that demand for fraudulent cards would disappear if people refused to use them.

The DOJ is preparing a legal opinion to clarify the consequences of using fake PWD IDs and guide businesses on possible legal remedies against violators, Chan said.

He added that establishments, including restaurants, may consider filing falsification or estafa cases against customers who use fraudulent IDs to obtain discounts and other privileges.

Chan also called on business owners to take a more proactive role in addressing the problem, saying the department’s guidance could help them pursue appropriate legal action against offenders.