Angeles City warns vs people posing as building collapse victims
THE suspect being questioned by the police. (Photo via Liezle Basa-Inigo)
The Angeles City government has warned people to remain vigilant against individuals falsely posing as victims or survivors of the building collapse.
The city government issued the reminder after the Angeles City Police Office apprehended a man who claimed on social media that he survived the incident.
The man, whose claim went viral, said he was buying beer nearby when the structure collapsed.
Initial investigation revealed that he received financial assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Wednesday.
The man attempted to claim additional assistance, prompting authorities to verify his identity and background. Police found out that he was not a survivor or related to victims and not a resident of Angeles City.
He admitted fabricating the situation and taken into police custody and authorities are preparing appropriate charges against him.
Lazatin condemned people taking advantage of the tragedy for personal gain.
“This is a very painful incident that has deeply affected many families. A lot of people have suffered and continue to suffer because of this tragedy. What we need right now is empathy, honesty, and understanding, not exploitation,” Lazatin said.