8888 texters should ID selves for reward’

MANILA, Philippines — Citizens who wish to report corrupt officials to the 8888 Citizens’ Complaint Center should identify themselves so they can collect their reward money, Malacañang said yesterday.

Presidential spokesman Harry Roque assured the public that the identities of tipsters would remain confidential.

“If the report has a basis and if it is proven that your tip allowed us to catch a corrupt personnel, you need to state your name – it won’t be released by 8888 – just in case you want to collect a reward,” Roque said at a press briefing.

“If we can’t trace you, you won’t be able to collect your reward,” he added.

President Duterte has offered reward money ranging from P50,000 to P100,000 to anyone who would report corruption in government.

Earlier this month, the Office of the President added a text service platform to the 8888 Citizens’ Complaint Center.

Reports about graft, corruption, and slow and inefficient delivery of government services as well as requests for assistance can be sent via text message to 8888 free of charge. The service is open to Smart, Globe, and their affiliate telcos. The 8888 Citizens’ Complaint Hotline was institutionalized through Executive Order No. 6 signed by the President on Oct. 14, 2016.