PNP probes scammers exploiting gov’t funding programs

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is investigating individuals and groups allegedly using two government funding projects to scam the public through fake government fund release schemes.

According to a statement on Sunday, the PNP identified the exploited programs as the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) and Socio-Civic Projects Fund (SCPF),

The PNP said it would conduct a thorough investigation into the reported activities, identify those responsible, and file criminal charges against them.

Field units were ordered to strengthen monitoring and investigative efforts after the Office of the Executive Secretary (OES) warned of fraudulent schemes tied to the alleged release of government funds.

Earlier, the OES cautioned the public against scammers claiming they could facilitate the release of LGSF and SCPF allocations in exchange for money.

READ: LGSF scam: Palace warns local governments against fraudsters

Authorities said the impostors were organizing gatherings and falsely claiming they could secure appointments.

Moreover, fake personnel were posing as authorized program representatives and using official program logos and emblems without authorization.

“Every single centavo from the public coffers must be protected,” Nartatez said.

According to him, intensified surveillance is already underway against individuals and groups allegedly misrepresenting themselves to defraud the public.“We appeal to the public to be discerning and vigilant and immediately report to the authorities if they find anything suspicious so our cops can respond swiftly,” Nartatez said.

READ: EC warns vs loan scams impersonating registered firms

He also ordered police units to strengthen coordination with local government units to prevent similar scams and crack down on illegal collection activities.Under the Marcos administration’s “Bawat Bayan Makikinabang” program, the national government allocated P57.872 billion this year to support local government units nationwide through the LGSF. /atm