OCD-6 warns public of scam using director’s name

By Jennifer P. Rendon

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) – Region 6 has warned the public against a scam using the name of its regional director to solicit donations for disaster victims.

In an advisory, the OCD-6 clarified that all official actions and assistance for disaster-affected individuals are conducted through legitimate government channels and in coordination with authorized agencies. The office emphasized that it is not soliciting aid, either in cash or in kind, for disaster victims.

“It has come to our attention that unscrupulous individuals are falsely using the name of OCD-6 Regional Director Raul Fernandez to solicit money or assistance, allegedly on behalf of victims of Tropical Storm Enteng,” the advisory stated.

“We strongly emphasize that neither RD Fernandez nor the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) engages in any form of direct solicitation from the public for aid or donations,” it added.

OCD-6 public information officer Maria Cristina Mayor revealed that a scammer contacted one of their suppliers in Negros Occidental, claiming that Fernandez and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) were requesting financial assistance for victims of Tropical Storm Enteng.

The supplier, who handles catering for the Regional Incident Management Team (RIMT), reported that the caller spoke Tagalog and provided bank details for sending donations.

The OCD-6 urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local authorities.

“If you encounter any suspicious activities, please report them immediately to your local police or the nearest OCD office,” the advisory said.