Para±aque: Scam Watch Pilipinas has initiated its 'On-the-Go Anti-Scam Training Roadshow' in Para±aque City as part of its mission to bolster community defenses against online scams. The initiative is spearheaded by the civilian cybersecurity group to deliver scam prevention education directly to local communities.
According to Philippines News Agency, Scam Watch Pilipinas co-founder Jocel De Guzman stated that Para±aque was chosen as the launch site due to the city government's dedication to combating scams at the grassroots level. De Guzman emphasized the collaboration with the Para±aque City government, led by Mayor Kuya Edwin Olivarez, which has been crucial for this project's implementation.
The program's objective is to integrate scam prevention training into communities, from barangays to local organizations, and establish an anti-scam reporting desk in every barangay hall. Residents can report scams through the helpline 1326 and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), making scam prevention a part of daily life.
Since the roadshow's commencement on December 5, 103 Para±aque City employees have completed the behavior-based anti-scam training. These trained individuals now act as volunteer advocates, assisting families and communities in identifying and addressing fraudulent activities.
Mayor Olivarez underscored the program's significance in addressing the persistent issue of online scams, stating that the partnership with Scam Watch Pilipinas marks an essential step in educating the city's residents. Para±aque takes pride in being the inaugural host of this training initiative.
The roadshow is a collaborative effort involving Scam Watch Pilipinas, CICC, PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group, Whoscall/Gogolook Philippines, Meta, WiSAP, Bayan Academy, the Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA), and the Para±aque Public Information Office. Post-roadshow, Scam Watch plans to expand this community-based anti-scam education nationwide, empowering more Filipinos to act against online fraud.