Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has issued a warning to the public about individuals impersonating Secretary Rex Gatchalian to fraudulently solicit donations.

According to Philippines News Agency, scammers have been using Gatchalian's name and image across various platforms to ask for money, sometimes even pretending to be his aide. In a Facebook post dated February 14, Gatchalian clarified that he has never authorized or engaged in any monetary solicitation. "I want to clarify that I am not and never am I asking or soliciting any amount allegedly for any foundation. Be careful to those posing as Rex Gatchalian, especially on Signal and WhatsApp where they are using my picture, name, and even my contact number to dupe people," he stated.

The DSWD has reported that these scammers have been requesting significant sums, falsely claiming that their accounts have reached transfer limits. One fraudulent message read: 'Maxed out na my account's limit and my staff's account for the fund transfers sa Foundation, baka pwede you can do me a favor, will send it back na lang to your account later (midnight) transferred 950k na for them. Just send me the details.' In some instances, the scammers introduced themselves as 'Emman,' purportedly a member of Gatchalian's staff, to contact potential victims.

In a statement released on Monday, DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao emphasized that Gatchalian does not solicit funds for any foundation and does not permit aides to request money through private messaging apps. She urged the public to remain alert, verify suspicious messages, and refrain from sending money to anyone claiming to represent the DSWD chief. Dumlao advised, "Always remember, if you receive a message soliciting money or funds using the name of our Secretary or anyone in the department, immediately report it to the official Facebook account of the DSWD at @dswdserves or to our field offices for immediate action."