Advisory Against Fake Personnel Issued by Department of Budget and Management

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) released an advisory on Monday cautioning the public against false employees who are soliciting money in exchange for faster release of funds. It issued the notice following reports of such acts being carried out by individuals claiming to be DBM personnel,

“The DBM, under the leadership of Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman, condemns such fraudulent claims and activities, and vows to coordinate with proper authorities to investigate and determine swiftly those who are involved in this scam,” it explained. “We shall neither tolerate nor condone false representation and solicitation of this nature in any way, form, opportunity, and manner, as the same is considered illegal and unlawful.”

According to the DBM, the fake employees will often draft documents and ask local chief executives to sign the requests. After this, they will identify contractors and later ask for earnest money to hasten the release of funds. The department aims to conduct a thorough investigation to combat these illegal acts.

“We shall exert all efforts, within the fullest extent of the law, to identify, apprehend and file the appropriate charges against these deceitful individuals and groups,” the DBM added. The department has asked for the assistance of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to advise local government units (LGUs) regarding the matter.

“We at the DBM and its attached agencies do not, and will not, authorize any person or group to negotiate and solicit money from the public in exchange for favors,” asserted the department. “As a matter of policy, which we strongly uphold with integrity, diligence, and transparency, the DBM strictly follows the provisions of existing laws, rules, and regulations on the release of funds.” Moreover, the DBM called on the public to report to its office should they come across identical attempts.

Source: Manila Bulletin