Senator Erwin Tulfo on Sunday announced that he has filed a bill seeking to grant lifetime validity to identification cards issued to persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the Philippines.
Under Senate Bill No. 1405, Tulfo aims to amend Republic Act No. 7277, also known as the “Magna Carta for Persons with Disability,” to make PWD identification cards permanently valid and free of charge.
“Their PWD ID is very important because it allows them to access the benefits granted to them by law. Putting an expiration date on their ID is like denying or preventing them from enjoying those benefits,” he said.
The Magna Carta for Persons with Disability entitles PWDs to a 20 percent discount on goods and services, tax exemptions, educational assistance, and equal access to employment opportunities.
Tulfo emphasized that the bill seeks to uphold the dignity and rights of PWDs while ensuring that they continue to enjoy government-mandated benefits without interruption.
The senator also called for stronger enforcement of the Magna Carta for PWDs, saying many provisions remain under-implemented across local government units.
“The burden of our PWDs, who have long struggled with their personal battles, should be eased,” he stressed.
