By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan
MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) has stepped up its monitoring to apprehend fixers exploiting the distribution of government cash assistance amid the present challenge relating to energy supply.
In a statement Wednesday, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. warned that the PNP will be relentless in pursuing these individuals who take advantage of vulnerable families.
“Criminal elements will always find ways in exploiting even a sensitive situation, regardless of the victims,” he said.
“[The] PNP will be there to show them the consequences of their illegal action.”
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) earlier warned against backers or fixers who demand payment to secure financial assistance. The agency stressed that all of its services are free of charge.
It also urged the public not to believe scam messages asking for contact numbers in exchange for supposed government cash assistance.
Nartatez said he instructed the local police to intensify monitoring of fixers during the distribution of assistance to beneficiaries.
He emphasized that government assistance must reach eligible beneficiaries without harassment or exploitation by unscrupulous elements, and reminded the public that they do not need fixers to get cash assistance from the government.
He also urged beneficiaries to immediately report any individual demanding payment to facilitate “ayuda” and called on the public to be cautious and discerning amid these challenging times to avoid falling for these scams. (PNA)
