The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) warned the public regarding individuals allegedly using the name of DPWH OIC-Undersecretary Lara Marisse Esquibil to commit fraud or solicit favors.

In a statement released on December 16, the department said reports indicate that the two individuals identified as Mr. Rommel Santos and Mr. Ariel Gonzales allegedly claimed to be acting on behalf of Esquibil for "illegitimate purposes, including attempts to deceive or solicit favors."

“If you receive any suspicious or questionable phone calls of this nature from any DPWH official, please do not engage or respond to any demands, requests, or favors. Such actions constitute unacceptable and unauthorized behavior,” the statement added.

The DPWH emphasized that the public should not entertain such scams and should immediately report any suspicious calls or messages to the appropriate authorities.

“We urge the public to remain vigilant and help prevent these scams by staying alert and spreading awareness,” the statement read.

Esquibil was appointed as OIC-Undersecretary for Convergence Projects and Technical Services on October 20.