MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go yesterday denied that he ever sponsored a raffle draw with a prize as high as P580,000, as claimed by circulating text messages and reports, and said he is mulling suing the perpetrators.
Go said his office received reports of circulating text messages claiming that the recipient won P580,000 from a certain AIM Global Inc. that is sponsored by the senator.
“For the record, I am not related to AIM Global Inc. in any capacity ever since. My office or I have not sponsored any contest of this kind before. I have always condemned those who are using my name for personal gain and for defrauding our fellow Filipinos. I will not condone these acts,” Go said in a statement.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) earlier warned the public against fraudulent marketing ploys, including text messages, that claim to be endorsed by government officials and politicians.
“Despite my warnings before, there are still people using my name or those of President Duterte’s relatives for their interests,” Go said in Filipino.
Go instructed the public to report individuals spreading dubious marketing ploys and for government officials to consider “denied” anyone applying for any permit, requesting public documents or assistance who are using his name to expedite the process.
“If anyone is using my name to defraud others, consider this as your first and last warning. I will not hesitate to file appropriate charges against you,” he added.
The DTI reminded the public that government officials do not engage in private commercial transactions and personal promotion campaigns.
“While the DTI enforces the sales promotions provisions of the Consumer Act, it does not particularly endorse, partner nor support them, especially lucky draw games and raffles,” it said.
The agency said the public could validate registered trade promotions through their 1-384 hotline or their help desk ask@dti.gov.ph.