THE Department of Budget and Management (DBM) issued a statement last Monday warning the public against individuals claiming to be officials or personnel of DBM and acting as middlemen in order to earn or solicit money in exchange for faster release of funds for certain programs and projects.
The DBM said it condemns such fraudulent claims and activities and vows to coordinate with proper authorities to investigate and determine swiftly those who are involved in this scam.
“We shall neither tolerate nor condone false representation and solicitation of this nature in any way, form, opportunity and manner, as the same is considered illegal and unlawful,” the DBM statement read.
These fraudsters employ the following Modus Operandi: they will draft documents and ask local chief executives to sign the requests; identify contractors; and, will ask for earnest money. These are under the false pretense that the release of the subject funds will be expedited soonest.
“We have alerted and have been seriously coordinating with pertinent authorities in conducting a thorough investigation into these illegal activities,” the DBM statement read. “We shall exert all efforts, within the fullest extent of the law, to identify, apprehend and file the appropriate charges against these deceitful individuals and groups.”
The DBM said it is, likewise, coordinating with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) for the latter’s issuance of a memorandum cautioning / advising local governments units (LGUs) to take measures against such illegal undertaking.
“We at the DBM and its attached agencies do not and will not, authorize any person or group to negotiate and solicit money from the public in exchange for favors.”
“As a matter of policy, which we strongly uphold with integrity, diligence and transparency, the DBM strictly follows the provisions of existing laws, rules and regulations on the release of funds.”
“Our mandate to manage our people’s mone y and its process, are clearly outlined in our Citizen’s Charter, which is prominently placed in our offices and premises and in our official website.”
The DBM urges the public to be more vigilant and discerning and to report similar cases or any other suspicious undertaking using the name of the DBM, its Secretary, or any other official to advance their personal agenda and interest.