Governor Tamayo Warns Public: Beware of Individuals Collecting IDs in Exchange for Promised 'Ayuda'

Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. has issued a warning to the public about individuals going around collecting valid identification cards (IDs) from residents in exchange for supposed financial assistance or “ayuda.”

In a public advisory, Governor Tamayo cautioned residents of South Cotabato to be vigilant against these misleading schemes, stressing that such tactics are being used to exploit the identities of unsuspecting citizens.

"Marami po ang umiikot ngayon na nangongolekta ng ID ng ating mga kababayan, kesyo bibigyan daw ng ayuda. Mag-ingat po tayo," the governor said. "Ginagamit po nila ang inyong ID para sa mga liquidation ng perang nakuha nila."

He explained that in legitimate aid distribution programs such as those handled by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), personal documents like IDs and barangay clearances are only required during the actual release of assistance—not beforehand.

"Kapag may tunay na ayuda, during release po talaga hinihingi ang ID. Pero kung kinunan ka ng ID tapos wala namang agad na release, posibleng ginagamit lang ang pangalan ninyo para i-liquidate ang pondo," he warned.

Governor Tamayo stressed that falling victim to this scam could have serious consequences. If one’s identity is used to claim assistance without their knowledge, they may no longer be eligible for future aid from government agencies.

"Wag tayong magpapaloko. Sa panahon na kayo mismo ang mangangailangan—tulad ng hospital assistance—maaaring hindi na kayo ma-entitle dahil na-liquidate na ang pangalan ninyo sa ibang transaksyon," he added.

The governor urged residents to report any suspicious individuals or groups engaged in this scheme to their local authorities or barangay officials. He emphasized that the provincial government will not tolerate any form of abuse, especially those targeting the most vulnerable members of society.

Governor Tamayo also reiterated the importance of protecting one’s personal information and avoiding involvement in activities that could potentially hinder future access to government assistance.