Authorities in Central Visayas are warning residents and suppliers about a growing scam involving individuals impersonating officials from the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Central Visayas (DSWD 7).
Scammers are reportedly contacting people, claiming to represent the agency and requesting money for supposed programs or activities.
DSWD 7 Director Shalaine Lucero confirmed that these solicitations are unauthorized and stressed that the agency operates with full transparency.
“This is a serious concern because people are using my name to generate funds in the guise that they are the regional director… we have denied this several times,” Lucero said.
According to the regional office, some impostors have approached DSWD suppliers, claiming they were instructed to collect funds for agency programs.
Others have used different languages, including Tagalog, to mislead recipients, even though the regional director primarily communicates in Cebuano.
Lucero clarified that she has never met or communicated with these suppliers, in compliance with procurement regulations.
The DSWD also highlighted that any cash prizes or awards received by the agency are directly deposited with the cashier to fund improvements at the field office, leaving no room for outside collection.
The agency described the actions of the scammers as deliberate attempts to exploit vulnerable families and said it is taking steps to track them down.
Residents are advised to report any suspicious requests for money or donations to their Local Social Welfare and Development Office, the nearest police station, or through official DSWD contact numbers listed on social media.
Impersonating government officials to solicit funds is a criminal offense under Philippine law.
Offenders may face charges under Article 177 of the Revised Penal Code for usurpation of authority, Article 315 on estafa, and the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 if the act is committed online.
