DSWD helping PNP build case vs. fake Angeles building collapse survivor

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said Monday it is coordinating with the Philippine National Police (PNP) in building a case against a man arrested for falsely claiming to be a survivor of the collapsed building in Angeles City, Pampanga.

“So right now, we’re helping the Philippine National Police in the case buildup because we will not let this incident pass, so it will not be copied by other groups or individuals who may lie and exploit tragedies such as the building collapse in Angeles City,” DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao said on Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon.

The man was arrested on May 29 after allegedly fabricating a story that he had been near the collapse site, which so far claimed 13 lives. He was also able to receive an undisclosed amount of cash assistance from the DSWD.

Authorities later arrested him after he allegedly attempted to claim another form of government assistance.

The DSWD reminded the public that there are proper procedures for seeking aid from the government.

“There is a proper way to ask for assistance from the government. There are processes and documents that need to be submitted if an individual is in need,” Dumlao said.

The department added that it would strengthen its verification process to ensure assistance reaches legitimate beneficiaries.

“We will work closely with local government units, particularly city social welfare officers, to ensure that those receiving assistance are truly among those affected—the workers and families impacted by the incident—to make sure aid reaches those in need,” Dumlao said.—MCG, GMA News