The Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (PamCham) is doubling down on fake Persons with Disability (PWD) IDs, calling on government agencies to curb its proliferation to protect restaurant owners and operators.
In a letter to Rex T. Gatchalian, Chairperson of the National Council on Disability Affairs and Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the PamCham said, “This issue risks the sustainability of many restaurants, which may ultimately be forced to shut down, resulting in job losses and a negative impact on the local economy.”
The letter was signed by PamCham president Atty. Paul Yusi and Chairman Rene G. Romero. It was coursed through Glenda D. Relova, Executive Director of the National Council on Disability Affairs.
The group said that while Republic Act No. 7277 (Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities) as amended by RA No. 10754 rightfully grants privileges to individuals with disabilities, the integrity of this system is now being severely compromised.
“It has come to our attention that fraudulent PWD IDs are being used by individuals who do not qualify for such benefits. This abuse not only undermines the rightful privileges of legitimate PWDs but is also inflicting severe financial strain on the restaurant industry-an industry already struggling to recover from economic challenges,” PamCham said.
The group also said business owners are already reporting significant revenue losses due to fraudulent claims, and without immediate government intervention, this situation could spiral further out of control.
In light of this issue, the PamCham is urging Gatchalian’s office and the local government to take the following immediate actions on stricter Issuance and verification of PWD IDs. The government must ensure that only individuals who meet the legal and medical criteria receive PWD IDs.
“A thorough audit of existing IDs, along with the implementation of biometric verification or other secure measures, should be considered,” PamCham said.
They also said there should be enforcement of penalties for fraud.
“Those found using fraudulent PWD IDs should be held accountable in accordance with the law. We request strict enforcement of penalties against individuals who falsify documents or misrepresent themselves as PWDs to claim benefits,” they said.
Public awareness and business protection should also be taken into consideration, they said, through a widespread information campaign to educate the public and business sector about the proper use of PWD IDS, the penalties for fraud, and the importance of protecting the rights of genuine PWDs.
Lastly, they said there should be a clear reporting and complaint mechanism by establishing a government-backed, transparent reporting system where businesses and concerned citizens can report suspected abuses of PWD IDs, ensuring swift investigation and action.
“The longer this issue persists, the greater the damage to the restaurant industry, employment, and economic stability. The responsibility to protect both legitimate PWD beneficiaries and law-abiding businesses lies with the government, and we strongly urge immediate action to rectify this situation,” the group said.
