BACOLOD City – This city has executed guidelines for the issuance of identification cards (IDs) for persons with disability (PWD).
In Executive Order (EO) No. 10, signed by Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez on Feb. 27, the provisions cited that part of the ongoing program of this city to streamline the processing of PWD IDs and put an end to the proliferation of fake PWD IDs is the installation or provision of quick response (QR) codes and other security features on the PWD ID.
It added that there is also a need to harmonize the guidelines of the city in the issuance of PWD IDs in consonance with national regulations to enhance the efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of the identification process, making sure that individuals with disabilities receive the support and services they are entitled to under the law, as well as ensuring that indiscriminate issuance of PWD IDs is discontinued.
Benitez said these guidelines have been formulated by the National Council on Disability Affairs in coordination with the Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and Department of Interior and Local Government as provided for in Rule IV, Section 6.11 of the implementing rules and regulations.
He added that the ID issued shall be the basis for the provision of certain special privileges and discounts for bona fide PWD in the Philippines in accordance with Republic Act Nos. 9442, 10754, and 10747.
The implementing office is the PWD office under the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD).
It is reported that last month, Benitez issued a memorandum to DSSD head Alma Gustilo to recall all old PWD IDs and replace them with new ones with QR codes./PN
