The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the National Council on Disability Affairs have assured the public that essential services for persons with disabilities (PWDs) will remain accessible while the government develops a unified identification (ID) system.
This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commitment to implementing effective policies and programs that ensure equitable opportunities for PWDs.
During a press conference at the Philippine Information Agency auditorium in Quezon City, DSWD Assistant Secretary Elaine Fallarcuna emphasized that PWDs will still enjoy discounts, tax exemptions, and other benefits while transitioning to the new ID system.
The unified ID system aims to curb the fraudulent issuance and use of fake PWD IDs while improving service delivery. PWDs will need to reapply for an ID once the system is fully developed, with a 12-month transition period.
“Hindi sya (It’s not) abrupt. Mayroon pong mga mechanism tayo na gagawin para masiguro na epektibo at naaayon sa mga pangangailangan ng persons with disabilities ang ating mga ginagawa sa gobyerno (There will be mechanisms to ensure that what we are doing is effective and appropriate to the needs of PWDs),” she said.
“There will be a digital ID that will be issued by the system kung saan siya magre-register (where he/she
will register). While the applicant is waiting for the physical ID, he or she can use the digital ID, generated through the system. There will be no hampering of services and benefits for persons with disabilities.”
Fallarcuna also noted that an extensive information campaign will be launched during the transition period to ensure continued access to benefits.
The system will be pilot-tested from July to December in 32 selected local government units, targeting 200,000 PWDs or 10% of the total as of March 7.
“Makakatulong ang unified ID system (The unified ID system will be a big help) not only to the DSWD but also to other government agencies and merchants because in that system, they can check real-time if the physical IDs presented by PWDs are verified or not,” she said.