By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Iloilo City Government issued a public advisory on Tuesday, August 13, warning residents about individuals posing as “scam callers” using the name of Mayor Jerry Treñas in fraudulent schemes.
According to the advisory, these scammers are reportedly using Mayor Treñas’ name to solicit assistance for an oil spill incident that recently occurred in Bataan.
On July 25, a Philippine-flagged vessel carrying 1.4 million liters of industrial fuel oil capsized off the coast of Bataan.
The Department of Agriculture reported that as of August 7, the spill has affected 28,373 fisherfolk, with an estimated income loss of P78.69 million.
The city government clarified that these calls are unauthorized and have no connection to the mayor or any official operations of Iloilo City Hall.
The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious calls immediately.
The city government emphasized the importance of not falling victim to such deceitful practices and advised citizens to verify the authenticity of any requests for assistance that claim to be from government officials.