BACOLOD CITY — Businesses in this city welcomed the new regulation requiring QR codes on IDs for senior citizens and persons with disabilities to boost security and ensure the authenticity of benefits.
The move aims to enhance security and streamline the verification process for these IDs, ensuring that only legitimate cardholders can avail of the associated benefits.
Several establishment owners have praised the initiative, noting that the new security measures have significantly benefited both businesses and the community.
This regulation was implemented after Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez ordered the re-issuance of all PWD and Senior Citizen IDs to incorporate additional security features. This decision came in response to reports of fake PWD IDs circulating in the city, raising concerns about fraud and misuse.
Benitez issued a memorandum to ensure the security of data and compliance with regulations, addressing issues faced by the PWD and Senior Citizen Affairs Office.
He also emphasized the strict enforcement of Republic Act 10754, known as “An Act Expanding the Benefits and Privileges of Persons with Disability (PWD),” along with its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) and related policies.
According to the Legal Office, the Bacolod City Government has issued a total of 12,000 PWD IDs, all now featuring the new QR code security measure.
To further assist businesses in verifying the authenticity of these IDs, the city government has established a 24/7 hotline dedicated to this purpose.
This hotline allows business establishments to quickly and easily confirm the legitimacy of the PWD cards presented to them.
The validity of the PWD IDs extends for five years, providing long-term security and convenience for cardholders.
Mayor Benitez has also encouraged residents who wish to obtain a PWD ID to visit the Bacolod Government Center, where a special window is available to assist them in acquiring their IDs.
*Bacolod City Government Center (Photo: Planning and Management Office) Caloy Lozada