Bacolod Rep. Greg Gasataya warned the public Tuesday, July 8, against a person pretending to be him and calling establishments to make bogus reservations in an apparent attempt to besmirch his reputation.
On Tuesday afternoon, a male caller claiming to be Gasataya and using mobile number 0926 882 8981 called Nature’s Village Resort in Talisay City in an attempt to make a reservation for 30 to 35 people for a supposed meeting with the Department of Health and Philippine National Police.
“Thankfully, the establishment was diligent enough to confirm with Councilor Israel Salanga the authenticity of the mobile number since there had been similar incidents in the past,” Gasataya said.
Gasataya said he was also informed that Winterfell Café in Bacolod City received a similar call from the same number Tuesday to book reservations for 30 persons. It was good that the establishment verified with his office if such booking had really been made, he said.
“Should you receive a similar call, please do confirm with our office first through me or any of our staff before booking any reservations,” Gasataya said.
This sort of smear campaign is unacceptable as business establishments have struggled enough with the pandemic just to be scammed into wasting their precious resources, he said.
Gasataya said he is coordinating with the proper authorities regarding this incident.
He said two years ago similar calls were made by persons claiming to be him who also made bogus reservations at various establishments.*