Archival orders stricter vetting, database cleanup

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has admitted that fraud and abuse in the issuance of identification cards for persons with disabilities (PWD) continue to persist, prompting him to tighten the city’s verification system to ensure that only qualified beneficiaries receive the intended support.

In a meeting with the Cebu City PWD Federation and the PWD Women’s Federation, Archival stressed the urgent need to validate qualifications and cleanse the city’s PWD database to prevent further misuse of public resources.

“Importante nga ang ayuda moadto gyud sa mga tinuod nga PWDs nga nanginahanglan og suporta,” he said, emphasizing that the city must focus on protecting and assisting genuine PWDs.

The directive comes amid recurring controversies over fraudulent PWD IDs in Cebu City.

In 2024, the City Government suspended the printing of PWD cards after reports surfaced that able-bodied individuals were able to secure IDs for as much as ?4,000, with some transactions allegedly involving City Hall employees.

Earlier this year, Councilor Jose Lorenzo Abellanosa called for intensified crackdowns on fake IDs, noting their economic impact on establishments mandated to provide discounts and exemptions under Republic Act 10754. These include up to 20 percent discounts and VAT exemptions on food, medicine, transportation, and medical services.

Nationally, fraudulent PWD IDs have also drawn public attention, with reports showing how some individuals exploit the system to enjoy benefits meant for vulnerable sectors. This has prompted lawmakers and local governments to revisit policies and tighten issuance procedures.

In Cebu City, a barangay-by-barangay cleansing of the PWD database was launched earlier this year to remove fake, duplicate, and ineligible beneficiaries.

During the recent meeting, Archival also tasked Abellanosa to identify a suitable office space for the PWD federation. Newly elected officers of the PWD groups likewise took their oath of office.

The mayor emphasized that beyond system cleansing, the city must develop programs that uplift persons with disabilities and ensure that their voices are included in shaping inclusive and responsive policies.

Cebu City’s renewed push aims to restore integrity in its PWD programs and rebuild public trust by addressing past abuses and reinforcing accountability. (CEBU NEWS)