The Diocese of Dumaguete has asked the public to first verify the truthfulness of any solicitation before giving any assistance.
In a notice, the diocese warned the public against scammers using the name of a bishop or priest in their illegal scheme.
"This is to respectfully inform and encourage the public to be extra careful in responding to financial/material solicitations through texts, emails or actual letters that are said to be for the ordination of a diocesan/religious deacon/priest or for any church celebration/project for that matter," Fr. Gonzalo Omison, Chancellor of the diocese, said.
"Please take note that scammers would even use the name of a bishop or priest in order to lure the public into believing their illegal scheme," he added.
Omison said the public may verify the truthfulness of any solicitation by contacting their Chancery Office or the parish office concerned.
"Let us help each other become more vigilant against scammers and the like," he said