The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has warned the public against individuals falsely claiming to be beneficiaries of government assistance, saying those who pose as disaster survivors may face criminal charges.

The warning came after a man was arrested for allegedly pretending to be a survivor of the collapsed building incident in Barangay Balibago, Angeles City, in an attempt to obtain food and financial assistance intended for affected families.

DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said the agency is coordinating with law enforcement authorities and studying possible legal action against the individual, who was able to receive assistance before his claims were verified.

Initial validation showed that the man was neither a resident of the area nor connected to the construction site or any of the victims affected by the tragedy.

Meanwhile, DSWD Region 3 continues to provide assistance to legitimate victims and their families, including food packs, hygiene kits, psychosocial support, and cash assistance.

As of May 30, the DSWD reported that assistance worth ₱916,782.50 had been provided to 152 individuals affected by the incident.