(PNA file photo)
MANILA – A Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) official, previously dragged into fraudulent transactions, is pushing for the investigation of the reported vaccine-for-a-fee scam.
DILG Undersecretary and spokesperson Jonathan Malaya confirmed he received Twitter and text messages that the alleged scam artists are charging PHP12,000 for a Covid-19 vaccine slot.
The alleged scam may be true or not and it is up to authorities to dig deep into the matter, Malaya said in a radio interview on Saturday.
Citing a personal experience, Malaya said his name has been used in an illegal financial solicitation that scam artists said had his blessings.
“We will prosecute anyone responsible to the fullest extent of the law. It is also possible that the scammer is just pretending that he has slots and access to vaccines,” he said.
He said it is important to confirm if the alleged activity is true to eliminate fake news.
The Philippine National Police (PNP), and Mandaluyong and San Juan cities are also conducting their probe.
The public can report illegal activities via the E-Sumbong platform that includes the PNP's official hotlines (0919-1601752 and 0917-8475757), social media accounts, and email address [email protected]. (PNA)
