Manila: The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has issued a warning to the public against fraudulent messages falsely using the name of its President and Chief Executive Officer Edwin Mercado. In a news release, PhilHealth cautioned individuals about a circulating scam message that claims Mercado is requesting people to deposit money on his behalf.

According to Philippines News Agency, the scam message alleges that Mercado is in a crucial meeting and promises reimbursement of the amount afterward. The message includes specific details, such as a GCASH number (0938-4354071) under the name MieEl Briin Liin, and a Viber account with the name PCEO Mercado Edwin M and Viber number 0961-8296586.

PhilHealth has clarified that Mercado has not made any such request. The state insurer has advised the public not to engage with the sender or send any amount of money, emphasizing the importance of vigilance against such fraudulent schemes.