Senator Erwin Tulfo has filed a bill seeking to grant lifetime validity to identification cards (IDs) issued to Persons with Disability (PWDs).
Under Senate Bill No. 1405, which aims to amend Republic Act No. 7277 or the “Magna Carta for Persons with Disability,” PWD IDs will be issued free of charge and will remain valid for the lifetime of the holder.
“This is the struggle of many Filipino PWDs: every time their ID expires, they have to line up again, submit new requirements, and spend money on transportation. They need to invest time, energy, and money just to renew their ID—even though they are the ones living with disabilities. It’s like adding insult to their situation!” said Tulfo, who chairs the Senate Committee on Social Justice, Welfare, and Rural Development.
He emphasized the importance of the PWD ID, noting that it serves as a gateway for beneficiaries to access the privileges granted to them by law.
“Their PWD ID is essential because it allows them to avail themselves of the benefits provided by law. Placing an expiration date on it is like denying or restricting their access to those benefits,” Tulfo added.