December 2, 2025Dec 2 Photo courtesy of PhilStar A new House bill aims to grant lifetime validity to identification cards for persons with disabilities (PWD), addressing the repetitive renewal process currently facing those with permanent disabilities. Representative Brian Yamsuan from Parañaque City has introduced House Bill 6306, which seeks to amend the Magna Carta for Persons with Disability. The current law requires PWDs to renew ID cards every five years, involving a new medical certificate and renewal fee, even for lifelong conditions. The bill proposes that PWD IDs will no longer require renewal if the disability is permanent and certified by local health offices. These IDs will also be free, verified by the Local Social Welfare Development Office. Yamsuan emphasized that in-person renewal processes are burdensome, especially for the less mobile or those living far from centers, contradicting the intent of accessibility laid out in the law. Yamsuan highlighted the disproportionate impact on indigent PWDs, who constitute the majority and significantly depend on social welfare benefits. The Philippine Statistics Authority reports at least one registered PWD per 100 Filipinos, far lower than the WHO's global estimate. Yamsuan suggests the requirement for renewal deters registrations, impacting accessibility to benefits. Providing lifetime validity aims to simplify access to benefits, including a 20% discount and value-added tax exemption. The initiative hopes to remove bureaucratic barriers, improve registration, and streamline government management. The Senate has a similar proposal from Senator Erwin Tulfo, which will undergo further legislative processes before potential approval, reported PhilStar. Key Takeaways House Bill 6306 proposes lifetime validation for PWD IDs to eliminate redundant renewals. The bill addresses accessibility challenges and aims to streamline government processes and encourage registration among PWDs. Similar legislation is under consideration in the Senate, requiring further steps before becoming law. Click here for more Philippine stories Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-12-02
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