The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) warned the public against unscrupulous individuals claiming to be its employees and are making false representation to solicit money.

In an advisory released on Monday, Sept. 12, the DBM said it received reports that there were individuals claiming to be officials or personnel of the department and acting as middlemen.

According to the DBM, these unscrupulous individuals were soliciting money in exchange for faster release of funds for certain programs and projects of the government.

“The DBM, under the leadership of Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman, condemns such fraudulent claims and activities, and vows to coordinate with proper authorities to investigate and determine swiftly those who are involved in this scam,” the department said.

“We shall neither tolerate nor condone false representation and solicitation of this nature in any way, form, opportunity, and manner, as the same is considered illegal and unlawful.” DBM added.

These fraudsters employ the following Modus Operandi—they will draft documents and ask local chief executives to sign the requests, identify contractors, and will ask for earnest money, under the false pretense that the release of the subject funds will be expedited soonest.

“We have alerted, and have been seriously coordinating with pertinent Authorities in conducting a thorough investigation into these illegal activities,” DBM said.

“We shall exert all efforts, within the fullest extent of the law, to identify, apprehend and file the appropriate charges against these deceitful individuals and groups,” it added.

The DBM said it is likewise coordinating with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) for the latter’s issuance of a memorandum cautioning or advising local governments units (LGUs) to take measures against such illegal undertaking.

“We at the DBM and its attached agencies do not, and will not, authorize any person or group to negotiate and solicit money from the public in exchange for favors,” it said.

“As a matter of policy, which we strongly uphold with integrity, diligence and transparency, the DBM strictly follows the provisions of existing laws, rules, and regulations on the release of funds,” DBM said.

The department, meanwhile, urged the public to report similar undertakings, by calling at (02) 735-4847. “Rest assured that your identity will be kept confidential.”

"The DBM urges the public to be more vigilant and discerning, and to report similar cases or any other suspicious undertaking using the name of the DBM, its Secretary, or any other official to advance their personal agenda and interest,” it said.