DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos arrived in Lingayen town on Friday, February 23, to attend a court hearing against an arrested impostor who used his name to scam people.

Abalos attended the hearing to prove that his identify was used and falsified.

“Wala akong kamag-anak o empleyado na Larry Abalos ang pangalan”, Abalos intoned .

It will be recalled that on December 7, 2023, Edison Montealto, 27, was arrested after claiming to be a ‘Larry Abalos’ the chief of staff of the DILG Secretary, and made phone calls to solicit cash. He was also reported to have introduced himself once as the DILG Sec himself and mimicked his voice.

One complainant said he was called by the suspect, who asked for money to repair their service vehicles as they were allegedly en route to deliver assistance to residents in the area.

Secretary Abalos said the suspect has victimized many susceptible individuals, including two governors, and one mayor.

Montealto’s activities were tracked since receiving complaints in October 2023, until he was eventually arrested in Lingayen town.

Cases of Violation of the Anti-Cybercrime Law, syndicated estafa under PD 1689, spoofing under the SIM Card Registration Act, and identity theft were filed against Montealto, whose case is now being tried at a Regional Trial Court in Lingayen town.

Abalos warned individuals attempting to pose or use a government official’s name in extorting money. “Nope, don’t do it. You will be caught and you will suffer the consequences”, he said. (Ahikam Pasion)

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