The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in collaboration with the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), is set to initiate a pilot test of a new unified Identification (ID) system for persons with disabilities (PWDs) from January to June 2025. The system is slated for a nationwide rollout in July, aiming to curb the illegal issuance, sale, and use of counterfeit PWD IDs.
The NCDA, an agency under the DSWD, has been actively involved in developing this system. Following a roundtable discussion, the DSWD has been tasked with issuing the unified ID, pending the finalization of the terms of reference which will outline the various stages of the ID’s release.
NCDA Executive Director Glenda Relova emphasized the importance of this initiative during a media forum at the DSWD’s central office in Quezon City. She highlighted that the unified ID system is a response to the misuse of statutory discounts and privileges for PWDs, as outlined in Republic Act 10754.
The management of the new ID system will involve cooperation between the DSWD, NCDA, and local government units through their Persons with Disability Affairs Offices (PDAO). The application, verification, and approval processes will remain with the PDAO, while the DSWD will serve as the central issuing authority.
The unified ID will come in two forms: a physical ID, which is an RFID-enabled PVC card designed for offline use with high-security features, and a digital ID accessible through a mobile app or web portal. The digital version will include biometric data and QR codes for quick verification, enhancing security and ease of use.
The system will also feature a web-based portal for real-time updates and local-level ID verification, integrated with the Philippine Registry for Persons with Disability.