MANILA, Philippines – Senator Panfilo Lacson issued a caution to the public on Sunday about a scammer falsely claiming to be former Congresswoman Josephine Sato to solicit financial aid for rebuilding an orphanage damaged by a typhoon in Occidental Mindoro.

Lacson revealed that the impostor reached out to him demanding donations for a "typhoon-damaged orphanage building," but he was able to identify the individual, including verifying his photo via an official Social Security System ID. In a post on his X account, Lacson stated, "SCAMMER ON THE LOOSE: This person, misrepresenting himself as ex-Cong Nene Sato contacted the wrong guy when he asked me for financial support to rebuild a 'typhoon damaged orphanage building' in Occidental Mindoro. I have his real identity, even his photo on his SSS ID. GOTCHA, IDIOT!"

He also shared screenshots of Viber messages sent by the scammer, who used a profile picture of Sato and provided a "Gcash Donation Drive" number purportedly for the orphanage's benefit.

Lacson affirmed that he is cooperating with relevant authorities to ensure the scammer faces legal consequences. He stressed the importance of public vigilance, especially as communities are still recovering from the recent floods.

"This should prompt the public to be extra careful against such swindlers, especially as those affected by the recent flooding are still recovering," he added.

The senator's warning comes amid ongoing incidents of fraudulent activities exploiting disaster victims, highlighting the need for caution when responding to unsolicited requests for donations.