Business Owners Urged to Pay Only Through Official City Government Channels
By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Manila City Government has warned business owners and residents against unauthorized individuals allegedly soliciting or collecting money in connection with business permits, inspections, and other government transactions.
According to Levy Facundo, the individual being reported is neither an employee nor an inspector of the city government and has no authority whatsoever to represent the City of Manila in any official capacity.
Facundo emphasized that all official payments and fees related to business permits and other transactions must be made exclusively through the Taxpayer Business Lounge at the City Treasurer’s Office in Manila City Hall or through the official GoManila application.
He stressed that any collection of money, solicitation of payments, or transactions conducted outside established government procedures are illegal, unauthorized, and will not be recognized by the city government.
“The City Government of Manila does not authorize any individual to collect payments outside official channels. Any such transaction is considered illegal and will not be honored,” Facundo said.
The city government also reminded the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activities involving unauthorized collections or individuals claiming to represent city offices without proper identification.
Residents and business owners were encouraged to coordinate with the Bureau of Permits or the Manila Police District regarding any questionable transactions so that the appropriate investigation and legal action can be undertaken.
The advisory forms part of the city government’s ongoing efforts to protect the public from fraud and ensure transparency and accountability in all government transactions.
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