DILIMAN, Quezon City — Amid reports of scammers victimizing many of the citizenry, particularly overseas Filipino workers, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) has once again cautioned the public against unscrupulous groups and individuals using the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) Program as a means to fraudulently solicit cash from unsuspecting victims.

In a statement, DHSUD secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar said that his office has received reports that certain individuals and groups are enticing prospective ‘investors’ to finance 4PH projects in exchange for attractive return rates.

“Hindi po kami tumatanggap ng investors para magpagawa ng 4PH projects. Wala pong authorized na opisina o tao, kahit dito sa DHSUD, na makipag transaksyon tungkol sa ganitong investment scheme,” the housing chief disclosed.

“Fake news po iyan, o mas malala baka po scam,” he added.

Acuzar urged the public to be cautious in their plans of investing their hard-earned money and to report any information regarding private individuals or groups posing as ‘agents’ of the 4PH program.

He emphasized that anyone interested in 4PH should only channel their queries and concerns to DHSUD or their host local government units (LGUs).

“Any information relayed to DHSUD would be handled with utmost confidentiality. We promise to throw the book against those found abusing 4PH. We will exert the full force of the law against these unscrupulous individuals or groups preying on unsuspecting victims,” Acuzar vowed.

In ending, the secretary assured the public that DHSUD will not tolerate any illegal act meant to discredit or derail the current implementation of 4PH in various parts of the country.

To report any suspicion of illegal activities, like solicitations, in connection to 4PH, please contact (02) 8424-4070, or send an email to info@dhsud.gov.ph.