The Department of the Interior and Local Government yesterday warned the public that some people have been misrepresenting Secretary Benhur Abalos to solicit money and goods.

"We have received such reports from a provincial governor, a vice-governor, and a Department Secretary that they received various calls from poseurs claiming to be the DILG Chief and asking for financial support. This not legit," Abalos said.

The DILG chief said he would never, in his personal or official capacity, give financial or material support or ask anyone to solicit the same on his behalf "in contravention" of his official duty.

"I have already instructed the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group to dig deeper into this incident and to pin down the culprits behind this modus victimizing local officials," Abalos said.