It is a sad truth but swindlers will use even an unfortunate tragedy to victimize individuals. Apparently there are unscrupulous individuals and groups that would set up a fund drive for victims of calamities such as the recent typhoon “Pablo” that left many people in Mindanao and Visayas homeless and devastated.
For this reason, the congressman of San Juan, JV Ejercito warned overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) against persons or organizations that would solicit funds for donation purposes. To be sure that their money would be able to help those who are really in need, they should donate funds only to reputable organizations such as the Philippine Red Cross.
The congressman said, “I hope the government would look into these fraudulent donation schemes. There are always opportunists who exploit people in times of calamity.”
He also suggested that the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) should provide a list of legal and reputable relief organizations and groups to avoid having victims of donation schemes.
