Cordillera Administrative Region- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) here would like to warn its clients, stakeholders, and the general public regarding the circulating group using the name Bagong Bansang Maharlika (BBM) International Inc. allegedly asking for a membership fee of PhP 100.00 to individuals as a requirement to be included in the different programs and services of the DSWD.

DSWD FO CAR Regional Director Leo L Quintilla reiterates that the DSWD does not require any form of fee or payment in exchange of inclusion in any of the Department’s programs and services. DSWD’s request for clearance for Minors Travelling Abroad is the only service which requires a minimum fee before its release. The said clearance is required for minors travelling abroad alone or without either of their parents.

“Our purpose is to provide assistance to the disadvantaged sector of our community. Asking for an amount in exchange of it is never allowed in the Department” Director Quintilla emphasized.

The DSWD FO CAR has received reports on the alleged collection of membership fee of the BBM International Inc. in different part of the Region. The said group has also been using a Securities and Exchange Commission registration under Company Reg. No. CN2022030046453-01 which has been revoked on 14 November 2023.

Individuals who have encountered or have information in relation to any suspicious group collecting membership fees are advised to report to the nearest DSWD offices or they can also verify the legitimacy of certain groups from the local government units. The DSWD may be visited at #40 North Drive, Baguio City or reached through telephone numbers (6374) 661 04 30 or (6302) 396 65 80, mobile numbers +63917 871 9893, +63917 872 0256, e-mail at focar@dswd.gov.ph or Facebook account at www.facebook.com/dswdfocar. #DSWD-CAR, SOCIAL MARKETING UNIT, NERIZZA FAYE G. VILLANUEVA-TRINIDAD