STAR/Walter Bollozos
MANILA, Philippines — Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian issued a stern warning yesterday against scammers who spread text messages about “unclaimed” cash aid targeting vulnerable sectors such as senior citizens.
“We will make sure to prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law so don’t make the mistake of getting caught,” he said.
Gatchalian issued the warning after the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) received a report from a concerned citizen about a circulating text message regarding alleged “unclaimed” relief allowances for senior citizens and retired business owners.
He mentioned that the DSWD has mechanisms in place to detect scammers and to prevent any incident of scamming and deception among its clients.
“For those scammers, we will make sure that we are able to catch you,” Gatchalian said.
He also appealed to the public not to use the name of the DSWD to deceive senior citizens, pointing out that such an act “is even worse, that you are taking advantage of the vulnerability of individuals.”
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Gatchalian advised the public to report any suspicious messages they receive to the nearest DSWD office or to any concerned government agencies.
He reiterated that the DSWD has no such relief allowance being provided to the seniors.
Gatchalian clarified that the DSWD implements a social pension program for indigent senior citizens and that other financial assistance for individuals in a crisis situation, including the said sector, is extended through the DSWD’s crisis intervention unit located at the central office and in all field offices nationwide.
