The Restaurant Owners of the Philippines (Resto PH) reiterated that the use of fake persons with disabilities (PWD) cards is severely affecting the restaurant industry.
In an official statement released on February 3, Resto PH emphasized that the PWD discount was intended to support those who truly need it.
However, the growing abuse of fake PWD cards is placing a significant burden on restaurants and other businesses.
"Many people don't realize that it's not the government covering the 20% discount—it's businesses themselves. Every fraudulent discount comes directly out of a restaurant's pocket, cutting into already thin margins," Resto PH stated.
The group further explained that for restaurants, particularly small and family-owned establishments, the widespread use of fake PWD cards is not just an inconvenience, but a financial blow that could determine whether they survive or close their doors.
Furthermore, when multiple fake PWD cards are used at a single table, the resulting losses can be "devastating."
"This isn't just about lost revenue; it affects employees, food quality, and even menu prices for honest customers," they added.
They called for fairness, stressing that the discount should benefit those it was intended for, rather than serve as a loophole for individuals seeking to save a few pesos at the expense of struggling businesses.
"If you care about the restaurants you love, help protect them—say not to fake PWD cards," the group said in closing.
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The Senate Committee on Ways and Means previously revealed that fake PWD IDs are being sold on social media, with prices ranging from P500 to P1,500.
Moreover, the government is reportedly losing over P88 billion in taxes due to the increasing use of fake PWD IDs.
