Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson on Sunday exposed an alleged scammer posing as former Representative Josephine "Nene" Sato in an attempt to solicit donations for a supposedly typhoon-damaged orphanage in Occidental Mindoro.
In a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Lacson revealed that the scammer contacted him via Viber, pretending to be Sato and requesting financial support for rebuilding an orphanage reportedly destroyed by recent weather disturbances.
“SCAMMER ON THE LOOSE: This person, misrepresenting himself as ex-Cong Nene Sato, contacted the wrong guy when he asked me for financial support to rebuild a ‘typhoon-damaged orphanage building’ in Occidental Mindoro. I have his real identity, even his photo on his SSS ID. GOTCHA, IDIOT!” Lacson wrote.
The senator shared screenshots of the Viber conversation, showing the scammer using Sato's photo as a profile picture.
The messages included a “GCash Donation Drive” number purportedly for sending funds to aid the orphanage.
Lacson said he has already identified the scammer and obtained his photo and other personal information, which he intends to share with the proper authorities.
He added that he is coordinating with law enforcement to ensure the scammer is held accountable.
The senator then warned the public to be vigilant against fraudsters ad swindlers taking advantage of recent calamities, including those caused by typhoons and monsoon rains.