POLOMOLOK, South Cotabato — The Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Polomolok has issued a public warning over an alleged scam involving an individual reportedly soliciting donations while using the name of the parish.
In an advisory dated August 14, 2026, the parish urged parishioners and the public to remain vigilant following a reported incident in which an individual allegedly went to a residence and sought donations using the name of the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish.
According to the parish, a photograph related to the incident was captured by a closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera at the residence visited by the alleged solicitor. The incident was subsequently reported to the Parish Office. The parish said the image was posted with the permission of its owner for the purpose of warning parishioners and informing the public about the reported solicitation.
The parish emphasized that there is currently no priest being ordained under the Diocese of Marbel, and that it has no official solicitation or donation campaign currently being conducted or circulated.
The warning covers not only individuals who may personally approach parishioners but also possible scam attempts made through messages, phone calls, or solicitation letters. The parish advised anyone who receives such a request not to immediately provide money, donations, or personal information.
Instead, parishioners are urged to verify the legitimacy of any solicitation directly with the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Office or through the parish’s official social media page before making any contribution.
The parish stressed that legitimate fundraising activities or solicitation campaigns conducted in its name will be formally announced through its authorized communication channels.
The advisory comes as a reminder for members of the community to carefully verify donation requests, particularly those invoking the name of a church, religious organization, priest, or parish activity. Scammers may use legitimate institutions and religious causes to gain the trust of potential victims.
The parish called on parishioners to remain cautious and discerning and to avoid sharing personal or financial information with unverified individuals.
It also encouraged the public to share the warning with fellow parishioners and community members to help prevent others from falling victim to the reported scam.
Anyone who encounters a person, message, phone call, or letter seeking donations in the name of the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish is advised to verify the request with the parish before providing any assistance.
The parish’s message is clear: do not give money or personal information based solely on a solicitation. Verify first through official channels.