MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) is urging persons with disabilities (PWDs) to verify their identification cards through the agency’s official online registry following reports of individuals encountering issues with their records.

According to the DOH statement Wednesday, PWDs can check their ID status by visiting the official DOH PWD Registry website and using the “ID Verification” tab. 

The health agency reminded users to ensure that their ID numbers are entered in the correct format and advised them to coordinate with their local government units (LGUs) if they encounter any difficulties during the process.

For those who receive a “No records found” notification after verification, the DOH instructed them to proceed to their Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO). 

The PDAO is responsible for assisting PWDs in verifying and resolving registration issues and ensuring their IDs are properly recorded in the system, it said.

At the same time, the DOH issued a stern warning against the use of fake PWD IDs, emphasizing that such actions constitute a violation of Republic Act 7277, also known as the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons. 

Under Section 46 of the law, individuals caught using fraudulent PWD identification cards may face fines or imprisonment.

The Philippine Constitution grants a 20 percent discount for PWDs and an exemption from value-added tax (VAT) on certain goods and services. But the usage has been tagged “exploited” and “abused” since even people without disabilities get access to the PWD card through various channels including online marketplaces.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development had issued a reminder in 2024 following the issue, claiming that those who explot the system may face legal charges.

“We are urging the public to report individuals involved in the issuance and sale of fake persons with disabilities ID cards, which aim to fraudulently access benefits and privileges intended for persons with disabilities. Falsifying public documents and using fake documents are criminal offenses punishable under the Revised Penal Code,” DSWD spokesperson, Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said.

The health department, for its part, reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the rights and privileges of PWDs while protecting the integrity of the system against abuse and fraudulent activities.

PWDs and their families are encouraged to seek assistance from their local PDAO offices or visit the DOH’s official website for further guidance.