DSWD Warns Against Fraudulent Aid Claims After Scammer’s Arrest In Pampanga

Photo: Angeles City Information Office / Facebook

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) issued a stern warning that individuals misrepresenting themselves as disaster survivors to claim fraudulent aid will face criminal prosecution. The announcement followed the arrest of an opportunist who falsely claimed to have survived a recent nine-story building collapse in Barangay Balibago, Angeles City, Pampanga.

The Fraudulent Claim and Arrest

According to reports from the Angeles City Police Office (ACPO), a male suspect went viral on social media after fabricating a story that he was buying beer near the construction site when the structure collapsed.

Based on his fabricated survival story, the man successfully secured emergency food and financial assistance from the DSWD. However, the suspect was apprehended after his greed led him to return and attempt to claim additional financial aid, prompting authorities to audit his background.

The ensuing police verification revealed that the man was:

Not a resident of Angeles City; Entirely unconnected to any of the actual victims or construction workers; and Actively enticing other individuals to come to the disaster site to claim fraudulent relief.

The suspect later admitted to fabricating the entire narrative and remains under police custody while criminal charges are being finalized.

Government Response and Legal Consequences

DSWD Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Irene Dumlao emphasized that using falsified information, fake documents, or deceptive testimonies to siphon government aid meant for actual crisis victims is strictly punishable under the Revised Penal Code. The department is coordinating with law enforcement to file formal charges in court.

"What we need right now is empathy, honesty, and understanding — not exploitation," said Angeles City Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II, who strongly condemned the suspect for exploiting a disaster that has left multiple families grieving.

The disaster occurred after a nine-story building under construction collapsed amid severe weather. The incident triggered a massive search and rescue operation and prompted a Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) fact-finding investigation into the building's owner and contractor. Both the DSWD and local government units urge the public and media to remain highly vigilant against scammers trying to monetize local tragedies.