DSWD-6 warns public against bogus Facebook pages

By Jennifer P. Rendon

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) – Region 6 has advised the public to exercise prudence regarding advisories posted by alleged DSWD-run social media sites.

In a press statement, the DSWD-6, particularly the 4Ps Division, cautioned beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) against joining unauthorized private groups, sharing fake news, and following Facebook pages purportedly linked to the agency.

Atty. May Rago-Castillo, DSWD-6 public information officer, stated that the agency’s authorized private group in Western Visayas is “Region VI FDS/YDS,” while the 4Ps national official page is “Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program.”

“There are risks in joining private groups unauthorized by the agency. Administrators of these pages might extort hard-earned money in exchange for bogus promises,” she said.

Rago-Castillo also warned that individuals could be taken in by information that might be used for illegal purposes or mobilized for other objectives.

The agency has monitored several pages and has alerted the concerned authorities.

“For now, we’re issuing this public advisory for our beneficiaries to be cautious,” Rago-Castillo said.

She also advised beneficiaries to contact their DSWD city or municipal office directly for any questions or clarifications, especially those related to cash grants.