CSC warns public vs ‘fake case’ extortion scam

MANILA, Philippines —  The Civil Service Commission has warned the public against a new scam wherein people posing as CSC officials extort money from victims by claiming that administrative cases were filed against them.

In an advisory posted on Facebook yesterday, the CSC said it has received reports that the scammers were calling unsuspecting government workers, informing them that an administrative case has been filed and that they must contact a certain “Roland Insigne” via mobile number 0917-801-7009.

“The public is strongly advised not to engage with scammers and to report any similar incidents immediately,” the Commission said. “The CSC reminds everyone to remain vigilant and to verify the authenticity of any communication purporting to come from the Commission through its official channels.”

The CSC urged victims and others who may have knowledge about the scam to report to its Office for Legal Affairs at (02) 8931-8016 or (02) 8931-7935 local 401 to 411. The victims may also report via [email protected] or through the CSC’s feedback and assistance arm Contact Center ng Bayan at 0908-881-6565.

No more fake PWD IDs

Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development hopes to eliminate fake or fraudulent identification cards for persons with disabilities before the year ends as the DSWD finishes the pilot printing of new PWD cards by December.

DSWD Assistant Secretary Johannes Paulus Acuna said the unified PWD card aims to eliminate fake IDs and restore public trust in the benefits granted under the law.

Each card has security features that include access via mobile app or web portal and a QR code for instant verification by business establishments. The cards are also RFID-enabled for added protection.

“They can verify the PWD ID with the QR code. Then they will be diverted to the DSWD registry. It’s very easy. And for those who are found to have violated conditions, like allowing others to use their cards, this is a ground for deactivation,” Acuna warned.

The social welfare official clarified that PWD IDs are “non-transferable.”