THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) cautioned the public against fake solicitations for money or in-kind assistance using its name.

The department issued the warning after receiving evidence that a group called the Development for the Blind Welfare Philippines Inc. was conducting public solicitation using a certificate of fund raising allegedly granted by the DSWD. The forged document bore the signature of former DSWD Field Office 3 Director and current Assistant Secretary Marites Maristela.

According to Maristela, using a forged Certificate of Fund Raising in her name is illegal and unauthorized.

'There were kind-hearted individuals and families who were victimized by the illegal activity of the group,' Maristela said.

According to reports, the Development for the Blind Welfare of the Philippines Inc. was issued a permit to solicit for livelihood projects from Jan. 10 to March 15, 2023. The solicitors collected around P26,000 from various individuals and organizations.

Maristela urged the public to assist the department in stopping the organization from further victimizing individuals by reporting to the nearest DSWD office or police station if they are contacted by anyone carrying a fake certificate.

The DSWD recommended that the public confirm the validity of any solicitation drive with the agency before providing any type of assistance. This preventive approach is not intended to discourage the generous spirit of Filipinos but to guarantee that public solicitation is not abused by unscrupulous persons and groups.