The Philippine Red Cross warned the public on Sunday against fake COVID-19 swab and saliva test bookings and said the agency would take legal action against those involved in fraudulent transactions.
The PRC, in an advisory posted online, cautioned against the fake Facebook and GCash accounts of its secretary general, Elizabeth Zavalla.
“The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) warns the public of the fake Facebook and GCash account of PRC Secretary General Elizabeth Zavalla. The legal team of the PRC is currently investigating the incident of identity theft and will take legal action to the full extent of the law against these offenders who tainted the reputation of Ms. Zavalla and the entire PRC organization,” the PRC said.
“We are reminding everyone transacting with the PRC to transact only through our official channels. We will take necessary legal actions against anyone involved in these fraudulent transactions,” Zavalla said.
In a separate statement, GCash said it has already blocked the e-wallet account of the scammer.
“GCash has reached out to Ms. Zavalla to address the issue and to join her in pursuing any legal action that may be taken against the perpetrator of said unlawful activity. Likewise, GCash is also closely cooperating with the relevant authorities to investigate and track down the individuals behind this scam. “
“GCash assures the public that it will not hesitate to use the full extent of the law against unscrupulous individuals using the e-wallet platform for illegal purposes and activities.”
The PRC has urged the public to directly contact its National Headquarters or Chapter Offices for inquiries, through hotline numbers 1158 and 143, and +63-2-8790-2300, as well as through its website, www.redcross.org.ph.