The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Monday warned local officials, businessmen, and the public against poseurs introducing themselves as Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. to solicit money or goods to provide support to their members.
“We have received such reports from a provincial governor, a vice-governor, and a department secretary that they received various calls from poseurs claiming to be the DILG Chief and asking for financial support. This is not legit,” Abalos said in a statement.
“Let me put it on record that I will not, in my personal or official capacity, give financial or material support nor will I ask anyone to solicit money on my behalf for any illegal purpose especially that which is in contravention to the ideals and mission of the DILG which is mandated to ensure peace and order and public safety,” he said.
The DILG chief tapped the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group to conduct an investigation and pin down the culprits behind this modus victimizing local officials.
“I also urge the local government leagues to advise their members on this modus and to report any similar incident to the PNP to help in the investigation,” Abalos said.
