ILOILO — A spike in scam incidents involving the misuse of names and identities of police officials has prompted the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) to issue a province-wide warning, urging the public and local businesses to be on high alert against fraudsters posing as law enforcers to solicit money, medicines, or favors.
“The public is strongly advised that your Ilonggo cops do not solicit money, donations, or any form of favor from the public, whether through personal transactions, phone calls, text messages, or social media platforms,” read part of the advisory issued by the IPPO.
The provincial police office stressed that any request for money or items allegedly coming from police personnel should be treated as a scam and immediately verified with authorities.
“If anyone claims to be a police officer and asks for money or any item, do not believe or entertain the request. Immediately verify the information and report the incident to the nearest police station or through the 911 emergency hotline,” the IPPO said.
The advisory follows several reported cases in municipalities across Iloilo where scammers allegedly used the names of police chiefs and other officers to request medicines and monetary contributions from unsuspecting victims.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Rolando Araño, IPPO spokesperson, warned the public against sharing sensitive digital information, particularly one-time passwords (OTP), which scammers use to access victims’ accounts and steal money.
“Let us work together to prevent these fraudulent activities. The IPPO remains committed to integrity, professionalism, and selfless public service. Stay alert and be cautious at all times,” the IPPO added.
Araño also reminded the public to ensure that any financial assistance is handed directly to the legitimate recipient and not to individuals merely using another person’s name or identity.
Municipal police stations across the province have intensified dialogue and information drives within their areas of responsibility, particularly targeting pharmacies and drugstores, to help business owners and staff identify, prevent, and immediately report scam attempts involving the unauthorized use of police names and identities.
Pharmacy personnel were oriented on verification protocols and the importance of prompt coordination with authorities as part of the Philippine National Police’s continuing efforts to prevent fraud, protect local businesses, and strengthen community awareness./PN
