Typhoon donors warned vs fund solicitors

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine embassy in Kuala Lumpur has warned the public against individuals and organizations illegally soliciting funds for victims of Typhoon Yolanda.

“We have received information from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) that there are individuals and groups who are illegally soliciting funds for the benefit of the typhoon victims. These individuals are presenting themselves as alleged members of a reputable charitable institution to get money from unsuspecting donors,” embassy Charge d’Affaires Medardo Macaraig said.

The warning was issued after two Filipino women, posing as volunteers of a charitable organization, were caught by Thai police for falsely soliciting donations in a gasoline station in Udon Thani.

The two women were also found to have fake stickers, a list of donations and some cash when taken into custody.

“While we have not heard of any cases here in Malaysia, we would like to warn our Filipino community members and our Malaysian friends to do some research on the charitable organization before making any donation,” Macaraig said.

“It is also best that donations be coursed through reputable Filipino or Malaysian charitable organizations to ensure that their money or in-kind donations reach their intended recipients.”

The global community made contributions to the rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts of areas affected by the typhoon.