PNP Acts Against Fraudulent Typhoon Relief Solicitations
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has issued a strong public warning against fraudulent donation drives falsely claiming to aid victims of Typhoon Tino. The alert was announced in an official statement released on Sunday, November 9, 2025.
Investigation Launched Against Impostor
PNP acting chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. revealed that he has ordered an immediate investigation into an individual identified as Jennifer Santos. Santos is alleged to be falsely posing as a staff member of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) to solicit donations for typhoon victims in Cebu province.
The OCD has officially clarified that it does not request public donations through individuals. The agency urged citizens to coordinate their humanitarian aid directly through the official channels of the OCD or the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to ensure their contributions reach the intended beneficiaries.
Manhunt and Digital Tracing Underway
General Nartatez has directed the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) to identify and locate the suspect. Santos is specifically accused of impersonating a staff member from the office of Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito R. Alejandro IV.
The PNP is actively tracing digital communications, online accounts, and financial channels believed to be linked to the scam. This operation is being conducted in close coordination with the OCD and other concerned government bodies.
"Upon receiving the advisory from the Office of Civil Defense, our units immediately coordinated with the agency to gather information about the suspect. We are now tracing the digital footprint and communication channels used to solicit donations," Nartatez stated.
He issued a stern warning to those involved: "If it is proven that deception occurred, those involved will be held accountable under the law. Fraud and identity theft are serious offenses, especially when the names of government officials and disaster victims are being used."
Public Urged to Verify Before Donating
Nartatez reminded the public to exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of any solicitation before sending financial or material assistance. He assured that the PNP is committed to protecting the public from individuals who exploit calamities for personal gain and to upholding the integrity of legitimate relief operations.
"First of all, do not send donations to unknown people or accounts. Always verify through official government pages or hotlines if the solicitation is legitimate," he advised.
He appealed to the generosity of Filipinos, adding, "The kindness and generosity of Filipinos should go to the right place. Let's make sure our help reaches the real victims, not scammers taking advantage of a disaster situation."
The PNP encourages the public to report any suspicious solicitation activities to the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group or to the nearest police station.
