Gazmin warns vs solicitation scam using his name

MANILA, Philippines - Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin on Wednesday warned local officials against unscrupulous individuals using his name to solicit donations for military competitions.

Gazmin said he is not seeking prizes for contests organized by military units.

“Two governors have called me checking if I am asking for donations for tournaments or shooting competitions. I said I am not soliciting donations,” the defense chief told radio station dzRH in Filipino.

Gazmin said one governor from the north and another one from the Mimaropa region had been asked to donate television and air conditioner for military contests.

“Fortunately, these governors know me and they called me to verify if I am really asking for donation,” he said.

Gazmin said he is now checking the mobile phone numbers of the individuals who had solicited appliances from the two governors.

"I hope those who will be asked to donate will not give in to such schemes,” he said.