BIZ BUZZ: Crackdown on fake PWD IDs
After a recent Senate probe pegged the revenue losses from such a tax evasion scheme at a whopping P88.2 billion, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has had enough and is set to start a massive crackdown on the sale and use of fake person with disability (PWD) identification cards (ID).
The BIR said unscrupulous individuals have exploited the system by selling fake PWD IDs to those fraudulently seeking to claim these benefits. These fake IDs are not only sold on the streets but also through online marketplaces, making them easily accessible.
As such, the bureau said it will continue to conduct tax audits on transactions involving PWDs reported by establishments.
At the same time, the BIR will intensify its coordination with relevant agencies, including the Department of Health and the National Council on Disability Affairs, to verify the legitimacy of PWD IDs.
But beyond the losses, BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. said this illegal activity is also a disrespect to legitimate PWDs.
“The discount given by law to PWDs is for the improvement of their well-being and easing of their financial burden,” Lumagui said.
