TARLAC CITY, Tarlac (Jan. 20, 2023) — The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Central Luzon issued a public warning on people using the agency’s name to collect money in the province of Tarlac.
According to DSWD Region III Assistant Secretary Marites Maristela, a letter bearing the seal of the agency and with her (Maristela) forged signature soliciting financial support.
The letter also claims that a “Development for the Blind Welfare of the Philippines Inc.” was granted a permit to solicit for their livelihood projects – there is no such entity given permission by the DSWD to ask for financial assistance.
Maristela strongly denies and disclaims the authenticity and validity of the letter.
DSWD Region III said that the scammers were able to collect P26,000 from different individuals and organizations to date and is investigating the incident.