CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Councilor David Tumulak has warned the public to be vigilant and refrain from participating in the so-called “paluwagan” on social media.
Tumulak said a resident from Barangay Mabolo sought his assistance after at least 25 people were scammed using the online “paluwagan” scheme.
“Paluwagan,” which means ‘easing up,’ is a traditional Filipino practice of pooling funds among close friends and colleagues with the purpose of saving and making a lump sum for certain financial goals such as bigger purchases at the time of scheduled redemption or payout.
The alleged suspect was from Barangay Hipodromo in Cebu City. According to Tumulak, at least P500,000 was swindled by the suspect from the other participants.
“At first, maayo kuno kaayo kay naa gyud, successful. But in the end, nahibong nalang sila nga namissing, nawa la’g kalit,” said Tumulak.
The councilor has referred the complaint to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).
“But still, as of this time, katong mga victims gusto nga makigstorya adtong nagda sa ‘dawat-dawat’, ‘paluwagan’,” he said.
Tumulak said there are some paluwagan existing on social media which is about appliances, and other items. He reminded the public to remain vigilant with their money, especially during this time of pandemic.
“As of this moment nga naa ta sa pandemic, maglisod gyud atong panahon unya ang atong mga katawhan matintal pa jud tawon labi naa gyud sa paluwagan, makasuway sila’g dawat og dako nga bulk sa money,” said Tumulak.
“Dili sila magpada’g ilad diha sa social media kay sa pagkakaron, ang suspect it may seem na wala na didto sa ilang area, wa na ang Facebook account, wa na sa’y contact ang katong suspect. So, lisod gyud pagtrace kay mangawagtang maning maong mga suspect,” he added.
Tumulak said if a person would want to save money, he or she should keep the amount themselves and refrain from participating in a “paluwagan” on social media to avoid being scammed. — FPL (FREEMAN)