Public warned vs. 'Yolanda' scam using Palace official's name

MANILA, Philippines - A Malacañang official has alerted the public against scammers who are soliciting supposed donations for victims of Super Typhoon "Yolanda."

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Sec. Sonny Coloma said he was informed by the Management Association of the Philippines that the scammers were using his name.

"[Some unscrupulous individuals], while impersonating me, or claiming to represent me and my office, have resorted to soliciting donations related to Typhoon Yolanda," Coloma said in an article posted on the PCOO website.

The Palace official said the scammers had tried to prey on the members of the MAP and the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines.

A scammer also used his name in calling a colleague and offering a meeting with President Benigno Aquino III.

"I wish to emphasize that I did not - and will not - make such calls, nor authorize anyone to represent me in so doing," Coloma said.

The communications secretary said he has asked the MAP to note the caller information used by the impostors so their identities and whereabouts can be traced.