ZAMBOANGA, Philippines—Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado issued a warning to the public against individuals using his name to solicit money under false pretenses.
The warning comes after reports surfaced of a scammer claiming to be connected with Viado and asking for monetary donations for alleged typhoon victims.
One such incident was reported by a private contractor in Zamboanga, who received persistent messages from an individual falsely claiming that the solicitation was sanctioned by the Commissioner.
Further investigation revealed that the same mobile number used in this incident has also been involved in similar schemes targeting other government agencies, including the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Commissioner Viado strongly condemned the misuse of his name and emphasized that he is not, and has never been, involved in any form of solicitation for donations.
“The contact number 0997 108 8490 is not in any way connected to the Bureau of Immigration,” clarified Viado. “This is a blatant and shameless attempt to exploit the goodwill of our people in the name of public service. We warn the public not to entertain any messages or requests coming from this number or any individual claiming to be connected to me or the Bureau. Report such incidents immediately,” he warned.
Viado said they are already coordinating with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to investigate the said scam.
Viado said that all official communication from the BI is coursed through legitimate government channels and personnel.
