16/03/2026
𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has issued a warning to the public against pretending to have a disability to gain benefits and privileges reserved exclusively for persons with disabilities (PWDs), describing such behavior as unethical and disrespectful to the sector.
According to assistant secretary Irene Dumlao, such actions undermine government efforts to create an inclusive and equitable society for people with disabilities. She added that pretending to be disabled directly affects programs designed to protect and support PWDs.
The warning came after a video circulated on TikTok showing a netizen using the account .perry allegedly faking a disability to gain priority access on the Manila Light Rail Transit Line 1. The incident drew widespread criticism from online users.
The DSWD also expressed support for the National Council on Disability Affairs’ (NCDA) strong condemnation of the incident. The department emphasized that priority lanes and special access in public transportation and public spaces are vital for the safety and convenience of vulnerable sectors, including PWDs, senior citizens, and pregnant women.
The DSWD stressed that falsely claiming a disability to gain privileges goes against the intent of laws and policies designed to uphold the rights of PWDs.
Under Republic Act No. 7277, PWDs are guaranteed a barrier-free environment that allows them to move safely and independently in public spaces. The law also mandates that both public and private establishments provide reasonable accommodations, such as adjustments to facilities, services, schedules, technology, and policies, to ensure equal participation in society.
The DSWD added that these measures are designed to remove physical and social barriers faced by persons with disabilities and to ensure that they can fully exercise their rights as citizens.
The department also urged the public to respect and follow the rules regarding priority access and to support stricter enforcement of laws for the protection of vulnerable sectors.
Any incidents of abuse, violence, or illegal acts against PWDs can be reported to the NCDA for immediate action by the authorities.
*The Tagalog version can be read in the comment section.
