NBI asked to probe 'solicitations for typhoon victims' using name of BI Chief Viado
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) was asked on Thursday, July 24, to look into an alleged scam that uses the name of Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado in soliciting money for typhoon victims.
Viado said the scam is a blatant and shameless attempt to exploit the goodwill of our people in the name of public service.
In a press statement, Viado said cellular telephone 09971088490 has been identified as using his name in the solicitations. He also said the mobile telephone is not in any way connected to the BI.
“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 BI,” he said as he urged the public to report incidents immediately.
He stressed that he is not and has never been involved in any form of solicitation for donations.