‘Magalong scam’ back in Baguio

BAGUIO CITY — The Office of Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong is again alerting business owners here against the return of the "Magalong scammers" who are using the name of the mayor to be able to order foods and drinks as well as get cellphone loads for free.

Another set of complaints of such scams reached the said office. In a statement, the office reiterated that the mayor does not engage in the practice of personally calling to order food, reserve venues or asking for a load from any establishment.

"Please verify first with the City Mayor's Office through tel. no. 442-3939 before accepting the order," it was advised.

The scheme first came to light in 2019 when at least six restaurants were victimized. Last March, the scam expanded to establishments outside the city after one restaurant in Sagada, Mt. Province reported a similar ploy.