Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon yesterday warned his constituents against people who have been using his name and those of other local government officials in the ir scam operations.

Biazon said that reports have reached his office about people soliciting money or using other modus operandi to bilk others amid the Christmas season.

He explained that more people are taken advantage of during the yuletide season with 13th-month pay and bonuses being released by companies.

One scammer reportedly pretended to be Biazon and reserved a Muntinlupa business establishment for six hours while ordering food. The establishment owners were dismayed after finding out about the scam pulled off on them.

Some residents also reported receiving text messages from people who also pretended to be Biazon asking them to send mobile phone loads.

A number of other restaurants also received orders from people who pretended to be the mayor, with one establishment even recording the phone call of the impostor.

Biazon said the public should not easily believe and should be suspicious of faceless persons calling or texting them, claiming to be him or other Muntinlupa local government officials.

The mayor expressed sadness that con men and women are even taking advantage of the Christmas season to victimize more people. "These scammers will not miss any opportunity. Please be careful," Biazon told his constituents.

The mayor advised the public to call 8862-6436 if they encounter such nefarious activities.