PWD ID holders required to register under new unified identification system

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 04, 2026

Photo Courtesy: NCDA

Persons with disabilities across the Philippines will need to register under a new standardized identification system as the government moves to strengthen verification and address the proliferation of fraudulent PWD cards.

The National Council on Disability Affairs and the Department of Social Welfare and Development are implementing the Unified Persons with Disabilities Identification System, which will establish a centralized registry and a uniform ID format nationwide.

Under the new system, holders of previously issued PWD IDs must apply for registration again so their information can be verified and transferred to the centralized database.

Applications will continue to be processed through local government units, particularly their Persons with Disability Affairs Offices (PDAOs) and designated social welfare offices. The new identification cards will feature a unique alphanumeric number and a QR code for easier authentication.

The system is intended to address inconsistencies in the issuance of PWD IDs across localities and prevent unauthorized individuals from claiming discounts and other privileges intended for qualified beneficiaries.

NCDA Executive Director Glenda Relova said the government has already begun implementing the system, with a three-year transition period in place. However, only around 170,000 PWDs had registered under the new platform, compared with the estimated 2.9 million targeted for migration.

Under the guidelines, individuals with permanent disabilities may receive lifetime-valid IDs, while those with non-apparent disabilities may undergo revalidation every five years.

Authorities have also emphasized that legitimate PWDs should not be subjected to unnecessary medical assessments or repeated renewals, particularly when their conditions are clearly permanent.

The unified system will also strengthen monitoring through a centralized database, allowing establishments to verify identification cards through their QR codes.

PWDs who need to register or update their records may coordinate with their respective local PDAO or city or municipal social welfare office.