Negros occidental: Concerned government agencies have warned residents of Negros Occidental to be alert against social media pages posing as official tourism establishments and tourism-related businesses to deceive guests booking for accommodations. On Friday, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) advised guests to be aware of red flags when making online reservations in hotels, resorts and similar accommodation establishments.

According to Philippines News Agency, DICT-Negros Occidental head Mary Jane Agonace highlighted the sophistication of scammers, noting that even fake Facebook pages can amass thousands of followers and respond in a professional manner. She pointed out that a common red flag is being asked to pay upfront to secure a booking. Agonace urged the public to verify the authenticity of the establishment by contacting them through official channels before sending any money. "Make sure you're dealing with their real (Facebook) page," she added.

In its advisory, the Negros Occidental Provincial Tourism Division reminded Negrenses to be vigilant against fake Facebook pages, following reports of some guests being scammed after booking online for a beachfront resort in southern Negros. The advisory emphasized the importance of verifying that one is transacting with legitimate and official Facebook pages or contact details of the establishment before making any reservations, bookings, or sending payments.

The Provincial Tourism Division also noted that major resorts and accommodation establishments typically have websites where online bookings and payments through bank transactions or credit cards are available. Furthermore, guests are advised to check whether establishments and enterprises are accredited by the Department of Tourism. For further assistance, the Negros Occidental Provincial Tourism Division can be contacted at (034) 432-0852 or 0909-977-0007.