THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is not distributing 'relief allowances' to senior citizens, an official of the agency said on Thursday.

Miramel Garcia-Laxa, DSWD assistant bureau director, cited a complaint from a concerned citizen who had received a text message about 'unclaimed' relief allowances from the department.

'This was forwarded to us by the concerned citizen and that prompted us to issue an advisory to be extra vigilant and to not entertain those text messages about the unclaimed relief allowances because there is no such thing as relief allowances, particularly if these concern the DSWD,' according to Garcia-Laxa.

'We were just informed by [another] concerned individual that [he had] received the same text message, informing [him] about unclaimed relief allowances for senior citizens and retired business owners,' she said in a video interview with The Manila Times.

On Wednesday, the DSWD issued an advisory regarding text message scams surrounding the so-called relief allowances.

'The department did not issue or publish such message. Likewise, there [are] no such relief allowances that [are] being provided to the seniors,' the DSWD advisory on its website read.

The DSWD reminded the public to refrain from engaging with unknown individuals and from giving sensitive personal information through text message, email, or phone call.

Garcia-Laxa said the supposed message coming from the DSWD on the unclaimed relief allowances even gave instructions on how to claim the allowances.

She added that the agency has legitimate programs for senior citizens, such as Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations, who are in need of financial, medical, burial and educational assistance, which can be availed of by submitting documentary requirements.

The agency said this assistance is extended through its Crisis Intervention Unit (CIU) located at the Central Office and in all DSWD Field Offices nationwide.

'CIU clients undergo assessment to avail of the needed assistance,' the DSWD advisory also read.

Those who wish to air their concerns regarding the DSWD's programs can call (02) 8931-8101 loc. 10125/10157 or send an email through socialpension@dswd.gov.ph or through their Program Management Bureau at psb@dswd.gov.ph.

They can also go to their local DSWD office for further details or information on availing of the department's services.

ARIC JOHN SY CUA