Authorities arrested 11 people allegedly masquerading as facilitators for the government’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers' (TUPAD) program.

The 11 arrested allegedly enticed would be victims in Samal Island to register with their organization and pay P500 to avail of the TUPAD program benefits, including rice at only P20 per kilo.

They allegedly introduced themselves as members of the “Uniteam Emergency Help Typhoon Organization” and claimed they are connected with politicians in the province.

They also allegedly showed documents in an attempt to prove they were legitimate.

However, the police said the group is not connected with any politician.

Based also on the group’s registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the group is not allowed to solicit investment or recruit members with a corresponding fee.

“Allegedly, naga-collect sila og sum of P500 in exchange of promise nga mahatagan og kadtong tabang,” Davao del Norte Provincial Police Office (DNPPO) Spokesperson, Major Anjanette Tirador, said.

Police said aside from Davao del Norte, the group also allegedly victimized residents in Davao del Sur.

Those arrested will face charges for estafa. They did not issue a statement.

The public is urged to report similar a modus to authorities.

“If ever naa’y mga ing-ani, kung mohatag ta og ayuda, wala gyud na siya in exchange nga mobayad ta. Mo-report dayon sa duol nga police station aron mahatagan og immediate action,” Tirador added.