DSWD Issues Fresh Warning Against TikTok Scams Promising Educational Assistance

Quezon City — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has issued a renewed warning to the public against engaging with deceptive social media accounts, including those on TikTok, which falsely offer educational assistance.

According to Philippines News Agency, these social media pages and groups often contain false information designed to mislead the public. “These platforms may also be used by online scammers to collect personal information for theft,” Dumlao stated. She emphasized that all clients of the DSWD must undergo a proper interview and assessment process to qualify for any assistance under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

The AICS program provides a range of services including cash assistance for essential needs such as food, transportation, medical services, and funeral expenses. Dumlao clarified that financial aid is distributed solely through the Crisis Intervention Unit/Section (CIU/CIS) at the DSWD’s central office in Quezon City and its field offices nationwide.

Further elaborating on the educational assistance, Dumlao highlighted the DSWD’s “Tara, Basa!” initiative, a tutoring program aimed at enhancing the reading proficiency of elementary students. The program partners with college students from state universities and colleges who serve as tutors and youth development workers to assist children who struggle with reading.

Dumlao urged the public to verify the sources of online information and only interact with official government websites and verified social media pages. She assured that the DSWD would continue to issue advisories through its official Facebook page to keep the public informed and protected against misinformation and online scams.