CIDG Arrests Woman for Selling DSWD Relief Goods Worth P15.5 Million
A woman was arrested in Tondo, Manila, after being caught selling government-issued relief goods worth more than P15.5 million.
The suspect, identified only as “Janice,” was nabbed during a joint operation by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) from the evening of October 2 until the early hours of October 3.
Authorities raided a warehouse along Juan Luna Street, where they discovered around 6,000 boxes labeled as “DSWD Family Kits.” Each box bore the markings “Not For Sale,” making it clear that the items were meant solely for disaster-stricken families and not for commercial purposes. The seized goods were valued at approximately P15,520,000.
The CIDG stressed that relief assistance from the government is intended only for communities affected by calamities. Selling or diverting these supplies for profit not only violates the law but also deprives disaster victims of the aid they urgently need.
Meanwhile, the DSWD clarified that the warehouse and the items involved in the operation were not owned, managed, or distributed by the agency. Officials strongly condemned the unauthorized use of their logo and warned against attempts to mislead the public through products falsely bearing the agency’s insignia.
The suspect now faces charges for violating the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010, as well as the Illegal Use of Insignia under the Revised Penal Code.
Both the DSWD and CIDG vowed to continue cracking down on such schemes, reminding the public that government aid should never be used for personal gain.
They also urged citizens to immediately report similar illegal activities to ensure accountability and protect resources meant for those in need.
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